COVID-19 lockdowns spark surge in eating disorders
The impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on eating disorders since the first wave has been unprecedented. The InsideOut Institute conducted a national survey of 1,723 people from July to October 2020 to track their behaviours in isolation. The results show a widespread increase in all eating disorder symptoms with more than two-thirds of participants reporting dealing with body image concerns, food restriction and binge eating.
This study published in the Journal of Eating Disorders is recorded as one the largest national observational studies to investigate the burden of enforced isolation on individuals’ wellbeing.
Dr Jane Miskovic-Wheatley, the research stream lead at the InsideOut Institute, joined 2SER producer Nalin Mastou to discuss the findings.
To seek support on eating or body image issues, you can contact the Butterfly Foundation’s National Helpline or visit the InsideOut Institute’s website for more information.
