Eating Disorders
May be Triggered by Traumatic Events
New
research published in the May issue of the Journal of Clinical Nursing has
determined that a lack of support following traumatic and/or transitional
events may trigger serious eating disorders in some young people.
The
researchers from the University of Minnesota interviewed 26 women and one man
who were receiving treatment from a specialist outpatient clinic for eating
disorders. The people in the study were aged from 17 to 64, and had suffered
from their eating disorders for an average of 20 years.
9
of the participants had a diagnosis of anorexia and 3 had bulimia. One person had both
conditions, and 14 were suffering from EDNOS; eating disorders that did not
meet the specific criteria to fit into any one diagnostic condition.
The
researchers were interested in finding out whether or not there was a link
between certain transitional events in a person’s life, and the subsequent
development of an eating disorder.
6
themes emerged that had impacted the participants who had then gone on to
develop eating disorders. These included relationship issues, abuse and sexual
assault, unresolved grief, serious personal illness, school transition, and
having to cope with a move or new job.
Within
these categories certain issues also arose that had exacerbated the stress
already experienced during the transitional and/or traumatic event. Many
participants mentioned missing their family, friends, or familiar co-workers
during transitional changes such as a new job, different school, or major move
to another location. Feelings of losing control were common throughout, and the
eating disorder was described by many as a way of gaining back some sense of
control in their disordered lives. A lack of support and overwhelming
loneliness were also cited as contributing factors.
Changes
to family dynamics and structure were also traumatic for this group of
individuals. Divorce, relationship changes (such as breaking-up with a
partner), and bereavement following the death of a family member were
especially difficult for these participants.
Some
individuals mentioned becoming overly focused on food or diet following a
serious illness or hospitalization.
Lastly,
traumatic events such as abuse or sexual assault resulted in an eating disorder
for some of the participants. Several mentioned overeating in order to gain
weight which they hoped would make them appear less vulnerable or less
attractive to their abusers.
Source:
Medical News Today
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