Eating disorders, childhood trauma, addiction, and religious abuse — this episode of Trauma Candy Salad shares three deeply personal stories about the lasting impact of trauma and the work it takes to survive it.

Beth opens the episode by sharing her experience with a severe eating disorder that began in adolescence and nearly cost her life, leading to congestive heart failure and long-term health complications. Her story explores body image, family dynamics, and recovery after years of disordered eating.

Producer Phil reads Alyssa’s story about growing up around parental drug use and drug dealing, witnessing her parents’ arrest as a child, and how addiction and incarceration shaped her life.

Ashley closes the episode with Gemma’s story of religious trauma and physical abuse justified by scripture, and the difficult decision to go no-contact to protect her own child and end the cycle of abuse.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of eating disorders, addiction, child abuse, and religious trauma. Listener discretion advised.

🍬 Candies in the bowl: Reese’s, Baby Ruths, and Peach Rings

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