A recent study published in Cureus: Journal of Medical Science has discovered an inherent connection between depression and eating disorders. According to a cross-sectional study conducted on teenagers in Saudi Arabia, eating disorders were more prevalent among those with more severe depressive symptoms.
The research observed that individuals with eating disorders had a higher-than-expected risk of developing eating psychopathology, which includes distorted body image, and general psychopathology, which encompasses sadness, anxiety, impulsivity, and low self-esteem. The study concluded, “Moreover, our results highlighted the critical role that age plays in determining the prevalence of these disorders, indicating that younger adolescents represent a particularly vulnerable group at risk for both conditions.” In fact, according to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2019, the global eating disorder prevalence increased from 3.4% to 7.8% between 2000 and 2018.
Dr. Jyoti Kapoor concurred with the findings, stating that eating disorders and depression often co-occur. People who struggle with eating disorders frequently exhibit depressive symptoms, such as ongoing melancholy, a sense of unworthiness, and a lack of interest in once-enjoyed activities. Conversely, individuals who suffer from depression might resort to disordered eating habits as a means of coping with their mental turmoil.
According to Dr. Priyanka Rohatgi, eating disorders and depression are linked by a negative reinforcement cycle. Because depression affects motivation, energy, and self-care, unhealthy eating habits might more easily spiral out of control. Furthermore, since eating disorders alter brain chemistry, the behaviors linked to fasting, bingeing, and purging can exacerbate mood disorders.
It’s important to acknowledge, nevertheless, that eating disorders are more common than officially documented. Dr. Saras Prasad noted, “Underreporting of disordered eating stems from stigma, societal pressure, and a lack of awareness.”
Successfully treating eating disorders requires addressing both the underlying psychological issues and the symptoms. “Medication and a combination of therapy modalities, including dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help manage both conditions concurrently,” said Dr. Rohatgi. “Understanding the psychology behind eating disorders enables more compassionate and comprehensive treatment,” she added.
-Raja Aditya
