Acute, Chronic and Intergenerational / Historical Trauma and the Development of Eating Disorders and Substance Use Disorders
Research has demonstrated a strong link between trauma (including historical and race-based trauma), abuse and neglect and eating disorders and substance use disorders. Recent studies validate the importance of assessing trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in treating eating disorders and substance use disorders. Newer research has shown that early childhood trauma has a direct effect on the neural circuitry of the brain in such a way that traits such as compulsivity, impulsivity and emotional dysregulation are promoted. These traits are underlying cornerstones of both eating disorders (ED) and substance use disorders (SUD). The definition of trauma has changed over time, providing a clearer picture of the various types and timing of trauma and its effect on the brain. Studies beginning with the families of Holocaust survivors and now with Native populations and African-Americans are validating that the effects of trauma can be passed on to future generations through epigenetic changes. This intergenerational trauma can impact risk for ED and SUD in future generations through epigenetics. The synthesis of these factors associated with acute, chronic and intergenerational trauma is important. When trauma and PTSD is unrecognized and untreated, treatment for ED and SUD is not effective and relapse rates are increased.
Learning Objectives:
- Participants will be able to understand the various ways in which trauma, abuse, and neglect can foster the development of eating disorders and substance use disorders.
- Participants will be able to describe the specific effects of trauma, abuse and neglect on the brain
- Participants will be able to list 3 treatments that are geared towards improving cognition, impulsivity and recovery from trauma.
- Participants will be able to describe how insecure attachment can result from trauma.
- Participants will be able to describe prenatal stressors that can affect neurodevelopment.
Attend Virtually or In-Person
Friday, September 22nd – 11:00am CST
Earn 1 CME/CEU
Space is limited for on-site attendees. Please arrive at 10:30am if you’re attending in-person.
View the Learner Notification to see which licensing boards we have accreditation.
Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross is an author, speaker, expert in using Integrative Medicine for the treatment of food and body image issues and addictions. She is board certified in Preventive Medicine and also in Addiction Medicine and is a graduate of Dr. Andrew Weil’s fellowship in Integrative Medicine. She consults with treatment centers around the US who want to include her unique integrative medicine approach to treat eating disorders and addictions. She is the author of three books; the latest is The Food Addiction Recovery Workbook. Dr. Ross is the CEO of The Anchor Program™, an online coaching program for food and body image issues. Dr. Ross’ belief that addictions and eating disorders are a wake-up call to change not only on the physiological and behavioral levels but also on the mental and spiritual levels is a compelling thread that runs through all of her work with clients.
Joint Accreditation Statement: In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Amedco LLC and Galen Mental Health. Amedco LLC is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team. Amedco Joint Accreditation #4008163.
