The Role of Spirituality in the Treatment of Trauma and Eating Disorders: Recommendations for Clinical Practice

Abstract

The relationships among trauma, eating disorders, and spirituality are complex. Both trauma and eating disorders can distance women from their own spirituality, which undermines a potentially important treatment resource. In this article, we offer suggestions based on our clinical experience for helping eating disorder patients who have suffered trauma to rediscover their faith and spirituality. We describe how spirituality can be used as a resource to assist women throughout treatment and in recovery.

Notes

Richards, P. S., O'Grady, K. A., Berrett, M. E., & Hardman, R. K. (2007). Eating disorder patient perceptions of trauma, eating disorders, and spirituality. Unpublished manuscript.