Eating disorder effect mental health in people

Synopsis submitted by:

Syeda Iman Shahid (18084)

In the partial fulfillment for the degree of BS Applied psychology

Supervisor:

Mam Haleema Sadia

Introduction:

Eating disorders are illnesses that can cause changes to your eating habits and body

image. Eating disorders are not a “phase” or a “choice.” They are serious medical conditions that can

affect your mental and physical health. In some cases, an eating disorder can even lead to hospitalization

or death.

Many people with eating disorders have other mental health conditions, like depression, anxiety,

or substance abuse. Mental health conditions can appear before, during, or after an eating disorder.

Sometimes, these are called “co-occurring” when they happen at the same time as the eating disorder.

It’s not clear how eating disorders interact with other mental health conditions — whether one causes

the other, or vice versa. It’s possible that these disorders are connected in the brain. It’s also possible

that the physical and behavioral changes of one condition could be a risk factor for another.

But we do know this: Depression, anxiety, and other conditions are common in people with eating

disorders. In one research study of people hospitalized with an eating disorder, 94% had a mood

disorder (like depression), and 56% had an anxiety disorder. Personality disorders, OCD, and attention

deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are also very common in people with eating disorders. And 25%

of people with an eating disorder have symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Background of study:

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic dramatically transformed daily life

for adolescents and young adults, altering social and physical environments. Previous research has

shown such shifts in daily life to be especially challenging for people living with eating disorders (ED).

However, the extent of this environmental change on ED symptoms and mental health (MH) has been
relatively unexplored in patients with ED. This study examines how young people with EDs feel the

COVID-19 pandemic has affected their living environments as well as their ED and MH symptoms and

motivation for ED recovery.

Participants were enrollees in the Registry of Eating Disorders and their Co-morbidities OVER time in

Youth (RECOVERY) who responded to an additional survey (n = 89) in July 2020 to assess their

perceptions of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants reported on concerns of their ED

worsening due to increased time living in a “triggering environment” due to the pandemic as well as

perceived COVID-related changes in intrusive ED thoughts, depression, anxiety, isolation, and

motivation to recover. Logistic regression models, adjusted for age and ED diagnosis, examined the

association of triggering environment with ED and MH symptoms.

Objective:

In eating disorder research various method are used to understand the effect on mental

health some common method include interviews, surveys , psychological assessments and even brain

imaging technique these method help researcher gather valuable insight into the relationship between

eating disorder and mental health it’s fascinating how science can shed light on these important issues.

Research tools:

BMI:

The Body Mass Index (BMI) scale was introduced by a Belgian mathematician named Adolphe

Quetelet in the early 19th century. He developed this scale as a way to assess the relationship between

weight and height in individuals. The BMI scale has since become widely used as a simple and

convenient tool to estimate body fat and assess potential health risks associated with weight. It's
important to note that while BMI can provide a general indication of weight status, it doesn't take into

account factors like muscle mass or body composition.

EAT-26:

The Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) is a widely used self-report questionnaire designed to

assess eating disorder symptoms and attitudes. It was developed by Garner and colleagues in 1982. The

EAT-26 consists of 26 items that measure various aspects of eating behaviors, concerns about weight

and shape, and psychological factors related to eating disorders. It's often used in research and clinical

settings to screen for potential eating disorder symptoms and to monitor treatment progress. The scale

can provide valuable insights into an individual's thoughts and behaviors related to food and body

image.

Rosenberg self esteem scale:

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale is a commonly used self-report measure created by Morris

Rosenberg in 1965. It consists of 10 statements that assess an individual's overall self-esteem and self-

worth. Participants rate their level of agreement with each statement on a scale ranging from strongly

agree to strongly disagree. The scale helps researchers and clinicians gain insights into an individual's

self-perception and confidence. It's often used in psychology research, counseling, and self-help

programs to assess and understand self-esteem levels.

Literature review:

Eating disorders can cause individuals to experience a range of symptoms that can

interfere with their ability to function. While many eating disorder symptoms are the result of disordered

eating behaviors, there are many associated emotions that can lead to low self-esteem and difficulty

participating socially. But, is there a connection between eating disorders and mental health issues?

There is a common link between eating disorders and mental health concerns, and individuals who

suffer from both conditions can experience an increase in symptoms when one condition worsens. To

effectively recover from these symptoms, individuals must receive well-rounded treatment that

addresses all concerns.

Psychiatry Research completed a study with participants who had a history of anorexia nervosa, bulimia

nervosa, or symptoms of both conditions. Results showed that a significant number of participants also

had a history of a major affective disorder.

Findings also showed that some participants had histories of anxiety disorders, substance use disorders,

and kleptomania. This data emphasizes the importance of in-depth patient evaluations and medical

histories while also informing clinically comprehensive treatment.

Additional studies demonstrate the presence of other mental health concerns in individuals who have

eating disorders. Research in the Journal of American College Health analyzed the overall health of

college-age women who were struggling with eating disorders.

Results showed that 21.7% of participants also experienced moderate to severe insomnia, depression,

and anxiety. These mental health concerns were reported as more significant in women who suffered

from more severe eating disorder symptoms.

Eating Disorders & Anxiety

Often, people who have eating disorders demonstrate high levels of anxiety, emotional

sensitivity, and self-restraint. Symptoms of anxiety may cause these individuals to exhibit worry or

concern over future events, criticism from others, or the inability to relax in social situations.

Research shows that anxiety disorders are present in 48%-51% of individuals who have anorexia

nervosa, 54%-81% of those who have bulimia nervosa, and 55%-65% of those who have binge-eating

disorder. These statistics depict the significance of anxiety in the lives of those who are suffering from

eating disorders, as this condition can be a complicating factor in the recovery process if left untreated.

Eating Disorders & Depression:

Literature has also shown the prevalence of co-occurring depression in individuals who have

eating disorders. A study with more than 2,400 participants found that 94% of individuals who received

inpatient treatment for an eating disorder also had symptoms of depression.

Depression and eating disorders can share similar symptoms, which sometimes makes it difficult for

professionals to distinguish the presence of both conditions. Both mental health concerns cause

individuals to experience mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, guilt, shame, and low self-esteem.

Individuals who suffer from an eating disorder and depression may also display appetite changes,

disordered eating behaviors, and physical symptoms such as digestive issues, muscle aches, and

bloating.

There is a clear overlap between some of these symptoms, demonstrating the need for careful evaluation

and well-rounded, condition-specific behavioral health treatment.

Methodology:

In methodology we use 3 scales :

Participants: In mini research dozen of sample size is required but in proper or effective research

required at least 100 sample size.

Measures: some sample scales related to eating disorder on mental health on people my include (BMI)

(EAT-26) (Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale)

Procedure: using scales and the procedure given by the scale the researcher try to perform the research.

Ethical consideration:

The research will strictly adhere to ethical guidelines, ensuring that all participants are fully

informed about the study’s objectives, procedures and their rights before participation. Their voluntary

consent will be obtained, at any stage without consequence. Confidentiality will be maintained

throughout the research process participant’s identities and any personal information collection will be

kept strictly, accessible only to authorized research personal. To protect participant’s privacy personal

details will be coded, ensure anonymity. Data will be used solely for research purpose and will not be

shared externally or used for activities.

Implications and limitations:

When it comes to researching eating disorder there are a few limitations to consider. One

limitation is to reliance on self-report measures which may be subject to biases and inaccuracies.

Additionally, there can be challenges in recruiting a diverse sample of participants which may limit the

generalizability of findings. Another limitation is the potential for underreporting or misdiagnosis of

eating disorders as individuals may be hesitant to seek help or may not meet the diagnostic criteria.

Lastly, longitudinal studies that track individuals over time can be challenging due to the complexity and

fluctuating nature of eating disorder. These are just a few limitations but it’s important to keep in mind

that ongoing research is continuously working to address these challenges and improve our

understanding of eating disorder.

What 2 recommendations do you have to reduce the problem of eating disorders in people?

Research has shown that the most effective eating disorder prevention programs: Use a health promotion

approach, focusing on building self-esteem, positive body image, and a balanced approach to nutrition

and physical activity.

Conclusion:

The conclusion of the research synopsis is that eating disorders have a significant impact

on mental health in individuals. People with eating disorders often experience a range of psychological

challenges, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and body image disturbances. These mental

health issues can further exacerbate the eating disorder symptoms and create a cycle of negative

thoughts and behaviors. It's crucial to address both the physical and mental aspects of eating disorders to

promote holistic recovery and well-being.

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