Recent research published in Cureus: Journal of Medical Science found an intrinsic link between eating disorders and depression. A cross-sectional study conducted in Saudi Arabia among adolescents found that the more severe the depressive symptoms were, the higher the prevalence of eating disorders existed.
The study noted that patients diagnosed with eating disorders (EDs) demonstrated higher risks of eating psychopathology, including distorted body image, and general psychopathology, such as depression, anxiety, impulsivity, and low self-esteem, surpassing anticipated levels. “Moreover, our findings underscored the pivotal role of age in influencing the prevalence of these conditions, as younger adolescents emerged as a distinct risk group susceptible to both EDs and depression,” it said.
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 per cent to 7.8 per cent between 2000 and 2018.
Concurring with the findings, Dr Jyoti Kapoor, founder-director and senior psychiatrist at Manasthali, told indianexpress.com that depression and eating disorders frequently co-occur. “Individuals with eating disorders often experience symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, feelings of worthlessness, and loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Conversely, people with depression may develop disordered eating patterns as a way to cope with their emotional distress.”
Younger adolescents emerged as a distinct risk group susceptible to both EDs and depression. (Source: Freepik)
Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, chief nutritionist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, added that a negative reinforcement cycle exists between depression and eating disorders. “Depression’s impact on motivation, energy levels, and self-care can make unhealthy eating habits spiral out of control more easily. Additionally, the starvation, binging, and purging behaviors associated with eating disorders can exacerbate mood disorders due to their effects on brain chemistry.”
However, it’s crucial to recognise that eating disorders are more prevalent than officially reported. “Factors like stigma, societal pressure, and a lack of awareness contribute to the underreporting of individuals struggling with disordered eating,” Dr Saras Prasad, consultant in psychiatry at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida Extension, explained.
For effective treatment, it is essential to address both the eating disorder symptoms and underlying psychological factors. “A combination of therapy modalities including cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioural therapy, along with medications, can help manage both conditions concurrently,” said Dr Rohatgi. “Understanding the psychology behind eating disorders leads to more empathetic, holistic care,” she added.
