Professional Webinar: Numbing the Pain - Exploring and Treating Substance Use in Eating Disorder Clients

Studies reveal that nearly 50% of individuals struggling with an eating disorder have abused drugs or alcohol, compared to 9% of the general .. Read more population. With this in mind, there is a strong link between substance use and eating disorders in women. Both groups share risk factors including low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family history, social pressure, and brain chemistry, as well as personality traits such as addictive and compulsive behaviors. This presentation will explore the belief systems fueling the cravings and desires that propel individuals into a relentless quest for the perfect body, the perfect life and the magic key to numb difficult emotions and internal pain. Attendees will learn how the combination of substance use and disordered eating provides a perilous ‘escape’ for individuals and what clinicians can offer for effective and appropriate treatment.