There’s no doubt that COVID-19 and its effects have seriously impacted the mental health of people everywhere. While many people may expect an increase in reports of loneliness, depression, or anxiety, there’s another mental health crisis emerging from the pandemic: a significant rise in eating disorder symptoms.
The National Eating Disorders Association reports that calls to its helpline went up 78 percent in recent months. Anecdotal evidence from doctors and mental health providers also speaks to a concerning rise in disordered eating and related behaviors. Since the beginning of the pandemic and lockdowns, providers have noted that people with and without pre-existing eating disorder diagnoses have shown concerning symptoms.
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased people’s exposure to eating disorder triggers while simultaneously decreasing access to coping mechanisms. When you add in the fact that this year has brought on lots of uncertainty and stress, 2020 has become the perfect storm for eating disorder symptoms.
Struggling with food? Our providers can help.