Is there a link between eating disorders and depression?
Exploring the relationship between diagnoses
3 min read | Illustration by Marcelo Clapp
Eating disorders encompass a range of different diagnoses including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. Each has its own patterns of an unhealthy relationship with food that impacts physical, mental and emotional health (for more information on the different types of eating disorders, visit NEDA’s page: Information by Eating Disorder). While there isn’t an exact science to the development of an eating disorder – research suggest a number of different intersections of biological, psychological and sociocultural impacts – certain risk factors exist. Among these risk factors is depression.
Sometimes one mental health diagnosis co-exists with another one. In the world of eating disorders, depression is the most commonly associated mental health diagnosis.
In anorexia, 32-39% of people struggle with depression. Moreover, research indicates that these individuals are 50 times more likely to commit suicide versus the general population. In bulimia, 36-50% experience depression; and in binge eating disorder, about 33% of people are also diagnosed with depression.
These numbers are significant, so what’s the link? “Just like we don’t know exactly what causes an eating disorder, there also isn’t one straightforward answer to the link between eating disorders and depression,” states Christine Menna LMSW and therapist at Downtown Somatic Therapy.
“There isn’t one straightforward answer to the link between eating disorders and depression.”
There’s a question of which comes first. As indicated, depression can certainly be an underlying cause of eating disorders. Eating disorders are often an attempt to cope with or manage painful emotions and experiences, including those associated with depression. When life feels overwhelming, controlling one’s food behaviors can offer a temporary respite and distraction. The issue of course is that the relief is fleeting and detrimental in a number of ways (mentally, emotionally, physiologically). In the long run, these avoidant behaviors end up causing more distress and disruption.
Eating disorders can also lead to depression for a range of reasons. In anorexia, the physiological impact of being underfed and malnourished can negatively impact brain chemistry and mood. Across all eating disorders, an individual typically has a negative body image and self-esteem. They feel sad and alone in their own skin which translates and expands into other areas of their life and existence as well. Additionally, eating disorders often cause individuals to withdraw from others. They’re predicated on a sense of secrecy to maintain the maladaptive behaviors that characterize them. As humans, we are wired for connection. Separating ourselves in these ways can lead to isolation and depression.
“When eating disorders and depression coexist, both can be treated with an integrative approach.”
How do you know if you’re experiencing depression? Below are common symptoms:
Feelings of sadness
Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Impaired ability to think or concentrate
Loss of interest in activities that once were pleasurable
Irritability or anger
Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. When eating disorders and depression coexist, both can be treated with an integrative approach. A licensed mental health professional can make a proper diagnosis and establish a treatment plan.