For many people, eating disorders are closely tied to past trauma, such as abuse, bullying, neglect, or chronic feelings of being unsafe. The trauma can range from very serious to less disruptive, however it can still affect your wellbeing in the present. These experiences can leave lasting emotional scars that shape the way you see yourself and your body. Sometimes, food becomes a tool to manage overwhelming feelings like shame, fear, sadness, or the need for control.