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Radunz M, Ali K, Wade TD. Pathways to improve early intervention for eating disorders: Findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Eat Disord 2023; 56:314-330. [PMID: 36346008 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatment-seeking rates among eating disorder (ED) populations are relatively low, with only one in four individuals seeking help. Previous research has identified many factors that might be associated with help-seeking in EDs, but to date no review has investigated the quantitative association between these factors and actual help-seeking behavior. The aim of the current review was to synthesize the relevant quantitative literature on factors (i.e., perceived barriers, characteristics associated with treatment seeking, demographic variables) associated with help-seeking using meta-analytic strategies, as well as provide recommendations on future early intervention research strategies to promote early help-seeking. METHOD Overall, 19 studies were included, identifying 141 perceived barriers (e.g., stigma) or individual characteristics (e.g., BMI, duration of illness) and 56 demographic variables (e.g., ethnicity), which were synthesized into 24 unique variables. RESULTS Less help-seeking was predicted by higher levels of denial and less perceived ability of others to provide help. DISCUSSION Given the small number of studies these results should be considered preliminary. Future studies should consider barriers to help-seeking when creating early intervention approaches. To improve help-seeking rates we suggest the use of targeted psychoeducational materials and co-design with people with lived experience when developing new strategies. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE The present study addresses a significant gap in the literature by synthesizing factors associated with help-seeking, with the aim of informing early intervention strategies to promote early help-seeking in eating disorder populations. Denial of illness and perceived inability of others to provide help were associated with lower help-seeking. Future studies should consider barriers to help-seeking and co-design with people with lived experience when creating new early intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Radunz
- Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Blackbird Initiative, Flinders Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kathina Ali
- Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Blackbird Initiative, Flinders Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tracey D Wade
- Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Blackbird Initiative, Flinders Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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2
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The role of pre-existing knowledge and knowledge acquisition in internet-based cognitive-behavioural therapy for eating disorders. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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3
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Fatt SJ, Mitchison D, Bussey K, Mond J. Methods used to assess insight in individuals with eating disorders: a scoping review. J Ment Health 2022:1-12. [PMID: 35543348 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2022.2069696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Insight can be impaired in individuals with an eating disorder and the nature of this impairment can vary. Although this topic has been the focus of several studies and reviews, methodologies used to assess insight have received less attention. A scoping review was conducted using a systematic search of articles before January 2021 to elucidate the methodologies used to assess insight in those with an eating disorder, with discussion of strengths and limitations. A total of 3089 studies were screened, and 24 quantitative studies which assessed at least one aspect of insight in individuals with an eating disorder were included in the review. Methods of assessing insight included coding of clinical notes, low scores on measures of self-report symptoms, direct assessment of insight, vignette, and self-report single-item questions. Insight into disordered eating symptoms was most frequently assessed. Most research used samples who were female, white, diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, and were seeking or receiving treatment. In designing future research and interventions, optimal methods used to assess insight should consider the research/clinical question, available resources, and the targeted demographic. Further, descriptions of which aspects of insight are being assessed should be considered in the interpretation of both current and future findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott J Fatt
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Deborah Mitchison
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kay Bussey
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jonathan Mond
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia
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4
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Abstract
PURPOSE Early detection of eating disorders (EDs) could improve their prognosis, decrease morbidity and mortality, and prevent the risk of evolution towards a chronic form and somatic, psychiatric and psychosocial complications. The objective of this review was to examine the current scientific data concerning the early detection of EDs, which is one of the facets of secondary prevention. METHOD A scoping literature review was carried out following the PRISMA-ScR criteria, including all articles on ED detection published up to 2021 on PUBMED and PSYCINFO. RESULTS 43 articles were included. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa were the most widely studied disorders. The articles focused on professionals from the medical field (GPs, psychiatrists, gynaecologists, gastroenterologists and residents), from the paramedical field, from education and sport, and from the general population. The assessments conducted with the professionals receiving interventions aiming to improve detection demonstrated their efficacy. Interventions for ED detection in the general population and at school seemed less efficacious. CONCLUSION The results highlighted some lines of action to be implemented. They pointed towards improving initial and continuing education for professional carers; e-learning could be an interesting solution for continuing education. Improving training with specific instructors, school personnel and sports professionals is also one of the solutions for a better detection of EDs. Specific recommendations could be published for fitness centre professionals to help them to deal with clients suspected of having an ED. Among secondary school students and in the general population, a better dissemination of mental health literacy and the development of mental health first aid programs could help improve early detection. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level I: Evidence obtained from systematic reviews.
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5
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Flatt RE, Norman E, Thornton LM, Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Balantekin KN, Smolar L, Mysko C, Wilfley DE, Taylor CB, Bulik CM. Eating disorder behaviors and treatment seeking in self-identified military personnel and veterans: Results of the National Eating Disorders Association online screening. Eat Behav 2021; 43:101562. [PMID: 34534875 PMCID: PMC8952181 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2021.101562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize disordered eating behaviors, eating disorder (ED) risk and diagnosis, and treatment seeking behaviors in active-duty military personnel/veterans compared with civilians. METHOD Self-selecting participants (n = 113,388; 1744 were military personnel/veterans) 18+ years old completed the National Eating Disorders Association's online screen. Engagement in and frequencies of disordered eating behaviors were compared across military/veteran and civilian groups and were stratified by gender. ED risk and diagnosis and treatment seeking behaviors were also compared. RESULTS Individuals in the military/veteran group were more likely to engage in diuretic/laxative use and excessive exercise compared with civilians. Compared with civilians, the military/veteran group had a lower percentage who screened "at risk for an ED" and a higher percentage who screened for "no risk". Females in the military/veteran group were more likely to engage in diuretic/laxative use, excessive exercise, and fasting compared with female civilians; males in the military/veteran group were more likely to engage in excessive exercise and less likely to engage in vomiting than male civilians. Of the self-identified military personnel/veterans who screened positive for any ED, 86% had never received treatment, which did not differ significantly from civilians. Notably, 56.7% of those (54.1% of military/veteran group; 56.7% of civilians) who completed an optional item on intention to seek treatment (n = 5312) indicated they would not seek treatment. CONCLUSIONS Disordered eating and ED profiles, but not treatment seeking, may differ between military personnel/veterans and civilians who complete an online ED screen. Future work should emphasize treatment options and connecting respondents directly to tailored resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Flatt
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Elliott Norman
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Laura M Thornton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Lauren Smolar
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Claire Mysko
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Denise E Wilfley
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - C Barr Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Center for m(2)Health, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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6
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Feldhege JM, Gulec H, Moessner M, Stieler C, van Stipelen J, Bauer S. Stigmatization and attitudes toward eating disorders: a comparison between native German adolescents, Turkish immigrant adolescents in Germany, and native Turkish adolescents. J Ment Health 2021; 31:99-108. [PMID: 34569396 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2021.1979484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The purpose of this study was to investigate the attitudes toward eating disorders in native German adolescents (Germans), adolescents with Turkish migration background in Germany (Immigrants), and native Turkish adolescents (Turks). METHOD A total of 507 adolescents (N = 139 Germans; N = 126 Immigrants; N = 242 Turks) read a vignette describing a 16-year-old female with bulimic symptoms. Participants completed questionnaires on mental health literacy, stigmatization, desirability of eating disorder-related behaviors and acquaintance with bulimic symptoms. RESULTS Adolescents living in Germany were more likely to recognize the vignette as an eating disorder than Turks. Immigrants were more similar to Germans in mental health literacy of eating disorders than Turks. However, in terms of stigmatizing attitudes, immigrants blamed more than Germans, Turks being intermediate on this variable. In Turks, higher desirability of eating disorder-related behaviors was associated with an increased acquaintance with bulimic symptoms and decreased evaluations of impairment. Higher mental health literacy was associated with less blame in Germans. CONCLUSIONS Migration background was associated with increased mental health literacy of eating disorders but did not result in reduced stigma. Differences in attitudes toward eating disorders indicate the need for differential interventions across the groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hayriye Gulec
- Department of Psychology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Markus Moessner
- Center for Psychotherapy Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christiane Stieler
- Klinik für Suchttherapie und Entwöhnung, Psychiatrisches Zentrum Nordbaden, Wiesloch, Germany
| | - Jhana van Stipelen
- Refugio Villingen-Schwenningen e. V., Psychosoziales Zentrum für traumatisierte Flüchtlinge, Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Bauer
- Center for Psychotherapy Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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7
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Fatt SJ, Mond J, Bussey K, Griffiths S, Murray SB, Lonergan A, Hay P, Pike K, Trompeter N, Mitchison D. Seeing yourself clearly: Self-identification of a body image problem in adolescents with an eating disorder. Early Interv Psychiatry 2021; 15:577-584. [PMID: 32426938 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM Many adolescents who meet diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder do not self-identify as having a problem and may consequently be less likely to seek help. Extant research investigating self-identification has been limited to specific populations (ie, girls meeting criteria for bulimic-type eating disorders). This study investigated how self-identification varied across sex, eating disorder diagnoses, and the presence of extreme eating behaviours, and how self-identification was related to help-seeking in adolescents. METHODS Participants included 1002 Australian school students (75.5% female, Mage = 15.14 years, SD = 1.40) who met DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder. An online survey assessed self-identification of having a body image problem, as well as sex, eating disorder diagnosis, extreme eating behaviours, help-seeking for a body image problem, and other potential correlates of self-identification (demographics, psychological distress, social function, weight and shape concerns). RESULTS Approximately, 2 in 3 adolescents with an eating disorder self-identified as having a body image problem. Girls who met criteria for a major eating disorder diagnosis, and those engaging in extreme eating behaviours, were more likely to self-identify. When adjusting for covariates, only sex remained significantly associated with self-identification. Adolescents who self-identified were 2.71 times more likely to seek help for a body image problem, adjusting for covariates. CONCLUSIONS Public health strategies ought to promote awareness regarding the different ways that body image problems might manifest among both girls and boys, as well as the potential gravity of such problems. Awareness among parents, teachers and primary care providers should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott J Fatt
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan Mond
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia.,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kay Bussey
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Scott Griffiths
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stuart B Murray
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Alexandra Lonergan
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillipa Hay
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kathleen Pike
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nora Trompeter
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deborah Mitchison
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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8
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Worsfold KA, Sheffield JK. Practitioner eating disorder detection: The influence of health mindset, thin-ideal internalization, orthorexia and gender role. Early Interv Psychiatry 2021; 15:296-305. [PMID: 32196980 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The current study sought to determine what factors inhibited psychologists, naturopaths and fitness instructors from detecting an eating disorder (ED), and the discipline differences across these factors. METHODS Participants of the online study were 115 health practitioners who consisted of 35 psychologists, 50 naturopathic and 30 fitness practitioners. A vignette describing a female experiencing a sub-threshold bulimic variant without purging was presented alongside ED mental health literacy items such as assessing one's ability to detect a problem. Additional items examined factors that may inhibit detection, including practitioners' level of: thin-ideal internalization, orthorexia, health or fitness mindset (a newly developed scale measuring health and fitness obsessiveness) and gender role identity. RESULTS A significant number of naturopaths and fitness instructors (20% and 33.3%, respectively) were found to have elevated orthorexia scores. Similarly, psychologists had the greatest tendency to internalize the thin-ideal (M = 3.60), which was comparable to levels seen in recent research for 20- to 21-year-old females with EDs. The two largest factors inhibiting ED detection were the strength of a health mindset and gender role identity. Practitioners who had higher health mindset scores or who associated with gender identities higher in masculinity traits (ie, either androgynous or masculine gender roles) were more likely to miss detecting an ED. CONCLUSIONS While many present ED studies focus upon assessing and changing client cognitions, this study emphasizes the need for further research regarding training interventions to address practitioner cognitions and gender role biases, which may in turn improve ED detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Worsfold
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Compass Health Group, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeanie K Sheffield
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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9
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Mond J, Slewa-Younan S, Gabriela Uribe Guajardo M, Mohammad Y, Johnson E, Milosevic D. Self-recognition of trauma-related psychopathology and help-seeking among resettled Iraqi refugees in Australia. Transcult Psychiatry 2021; 58:215-225. [PMID: 32389097 DOI: 10.1177/1363461520901635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The current study sought to examine resettled Iraqi refugees' recognition of trauma-related psychopathology and the association between recognition and help-seeking. Participants were 66 men and women aged 18 to 70 years with clinically significant symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) recruited from a larger, community-based sample in Western Sydney, Australia. Participants were presented with a vignette of a fictional character who had been exposed to trauma prior to leaving Iraq and who was suffering from symptoms of PTSD. Participants were then asked if they believed that they might currently have a problem such as the one described in the vignette. Approximately half (50.8%) of participants believed that they might currently have a problem such as the one described in the vignette and one third (33.3%) of participants had ever sought help for such a problem. Participants who believed that they might currently have a problem like the one described were 13 times more likely to have sought help for such a problem, controlling for demographic characteristics, trauma-related symptomatology, and levels of general psychological distress. Poor self-recognition level of trauma-related psychopathology among resettled Iraqi refugees may be a barrier to help-seeking and may therefore be an important target for health promotion and early intervention initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Mond
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia.,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, Australia
| | | | | | - Yaser Mohammad
- Bankstown Community Mental Health Centre, 1511South Western Sydney Local Health District, Bankstown, Australia
| | - Emma Johnson
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Diana Milosevic
- 1511South Western Sydney Local Health District Eastern Campus, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, Australia
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10
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Dittmer N, Voderholzer U, Mönch C, Cuntz U, Jacobi C, Schlegl S. Efficacy of a Specialized Group Intervention for Compulsive Exercise in Inpatients with Anorexia Nervosa: A Randomized Controlled Trial. PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOSOMATICS 2021; 89:161-173. [PMID: 32036375 DOI: 10.1159/000504583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment of compulsive exercise is recognized as a key unmet challenge in the treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN). To address this challenge, we developed the manualized group intervention "healthy exercise behavior" (HEB). This study evaluates the efficacy of HEB for the reduction of compulsive exercise as add-on to routine inpatient treatment (treatment as usual [TAU]) in a randomized controlled trial. METHODS Two hundred and seven adolescent and adult female inpatients with (atypical) AN were randomly allocated to TAU or to additional participation in HEB (TAU + HEB). HEB integrates elements of exercise-based therapy into a cognitive-behavioral approach. Assessments took place at admission, pre-intervention, post-intervention, discharge, and 6 months follow-up. Primary outcome was the severity of compulsive exercise assessed by the Commitment to Exercise Scale between pre- and post-intervention; secondary outcomes were additional aspects of compulsive exercise, assessed by the Compulsive Exercise Test, weight gain, eating disorder and general psychopathology, and emotion regulation. RESULTS In intention-to-treat analysis for the primary outcome, the TAU + HEB group showed significantly stronger reductions in the severity of compulsive exercise compared to the TAU group (z = -2.81; p = 0.005; effect size [ES] = -0.3). We also found significantly stronger reductions from admission to discharge (z= 2.62; p = 0.009; ES = -0.43), and from admission to follow-up (z = 2.1; p = 0.035; ES = -0.39). Regarding secondary outcomes, we found significant group differences between pre- and post-intervention in additional aspects of compulsive exercise (z = -2.55; p = 0.011; ES = -0.27). We did not find significant differences regarding weight gain, eating disorder and general psychopathology, and emotion regulation. CONCLUSIONS Our intervention proved efficacious in reducing compulsive exercise in inpatients with (atypical) AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Dittmer
- Schoen Clinic Roseneck, Prien am Chiemsee, Germany, .,Department of Clinical Psychology and E-Mental-Health, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany,
| | - Ulrich Voderholzer
- Schoen Clinic Roseneck, Prien am Chiemsee, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Cuntz
- Schoen Clinic Roseneck, Prien am Chiemsee, Germany.,Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Corinna Jacobi
- Department of Clinical Psychology and E-Mental-Health, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sandra Schlegl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
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11
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Flatt RE, Thornton LM, Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Balantekin KN, Smolar L, Mysko C, Wilfley DE, Taylor CB, DeFreese JD, Bardone-Cone AM, Bulik CM. Comparing eating disorder characteristics and treatment in self-identified competitive athletes and non-athletes from the National Eating Disorders Association online screening tool. Int J Eat Disord 2021; 54:365-375. [PMID: 33252150 PMCID: PMC8006447 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We compared eating disorder (ED) characteristics and treatment seeking behaviors between self-identified competitive athletes and non-athletes in a large, community-based sample. METHOD During the 2018 National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, 23,920 respondents, 14.7% of whom identified as competitive athletes, completed the National Eating Disorders Association online screen. Data were collected on demographics, disordered eating behaviors, probable ED diagnosis/risk, treatment history, and intent to seek treatment. RESULTS The sample was predominantly White (81.8%), female (90.3%), and between 13 and 24 years (82.6%). Over 86% met criteria for an ED/subthreshold ED, and of those, only 2.5% were in treatment. Suicidal ideation was reported in over half of the sample. Athletes reported a significantly greater likelihood of engaging in and more frequent excessive exercise episodes than non-athletes. Athletes also reported a significantly lower likelihood of engaging in and less frequent binge-eating episodes compared with non-athletes. Athletes were more likely to screen positive for an ED/subthreshold ED than non-athletes, but percentages across all probable ED diagnoses were similar. No significant differences between athletes and non-athletes emerged on treatment history or intention to seek treatment post-screen (less than 30%). DISCUSSION Although the distribution of probable ED diagnoses was similar in athletes and non-athletes, symptom profiles related to disordered eating behavior engagement and frequency may differ. Athletes may be less likely to seek treatment due to stigma, accessibility, and sport-specific barriers. Future work should directly connect survey respondents to tailored treatment tools and increase motivation to seek treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Flatt
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Laura M Thornton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Katherine N Balantekin
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Lauren Smolar
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Claire Mysko
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Denise E Wilfley
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - C Barr Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Center for m2Health, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - J D DeFreese
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anna M Bardone-Cone
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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12
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Jawed A, Harrison A, Dimitriou D. The Presentation of Eating Disorders in Saudi Arabia. Front Psychol 2021; 11:586706. [PMID: 33408663 PMCID: PMC7779393 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.586706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: There is lack of information on the presentation of eating disorders (EDs) in Saudi Arabia using gold standard clinical tools. The present study aimed to provide data on the presentation of EDs in Saudi Arabia using clinically validated measures. Method: Hundred and thirty-three individuals (33 male) with a mean age of 22 years (2.63) completed three measures: the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE), a semi-structured interview, the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q), a self-report measure, and the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) to measure comorbid symptoms. Results: Individuals in Saudi Arabia reported higher levels of restraint, eating concern and shape concern and a higher global score, but lower levels of weight concern on the EDE-Q compared to the EDE. Female participants reported a higher global score, alongside significantly higher scores on the restraint, shape concern and weight concern subscales than males. The most common ED subtype was other specific feeding or ED. Compared with Western community samples, symptom severity in this purposive sample obtained from community settings was significantly higher in this sample. Discussion: Individuals with eating, weight and shape concerns in Saudi Arabia may feel more comfortable expressing their symptoms on a self-report tool compared with a face to face interview. However, it is possible that a self-report measure may over-estimate the severity of symptoms. The data suggest that clinicians in Saudi Arabia should regularly screen for EDs in all genders. It is also important to note that ED symptoms are a cause for concern in young people in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Jawed
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, UCL Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom.,Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Harrison
- Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dagmara Dimitriou
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, UCL Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom.,Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Varnado-Sullivan PJ, Parker CC, Rohner A. Stigmatization and knowledge of anorexia nervosa. Eat Weight Disord 2020; 25:601-608. [PMID: 30784020 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-019-00655-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To further understand the stigma, attitudes towards, and recognition of Anorexia Nervosa (AN), the current study utilized both stigma and mental health literacy methodology. This study also included another psychological disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD) and a normal, lonely female (C) as comparison conditions. METHODS Male (291) and female (576) undergraduate students read a vignette describing one of the conditions. Participants then rated the vignettes on general personality characteristics, condition recognition, perceived seriousness and need for treatment. RESULTS Many of the participants could not correctly identify AN. However, both AN and MDD were stigmatized. Although AN was rated as being very driven and disciplined, there was recognition that treatment was warranted. Familiarity with the conditions did not impact ratings. CONCLUSIONS Continued efforts to reduce the stigma of AN and subsequent treatment seeking are warranted. The normal, lonely condition also being rated somewhat negatively highlights the need to include comparison conditions in stigma studies. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level II, comparative study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula J Varnado-Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, Southeastern Louisiana University, SLU Box 10831, Hammond, LA, 70402, USA.
| | - Christina C Parker
- Department of Psychology, Southeastern Louisiana University, SLU Box 10831, Hammond, LA, 70402, USA
| | - Ashley Rohner
- Department of Psychology, Southeastern Louisiana University, SLU Box 10831, Hammond, LA, 70402, USA
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14
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Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Karam AM, Monterubio GE, Taylor CB, Wilfley DE. Screening for Eating Disorders on College Campuses: a Review of the Recent Literature. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2019; 21:101. [PMID: 31522343 PMCID: PMC7025756 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-019-1093-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This paper provides a review of the recent literature on screening for eating disorders (EDs) on college campuses, and reports on methodology, prevalence rates, treatment receipt, and ED screening tools. RECENT FINDINGS Recent research highlights relatively high prevalence rates of EDs among students on college campuses, with the majority of studies demonstrating elevated prevalence compared to the general population. Among students who screened positive for an ED, approximately 20% or less reported having received treatment for their ED. Findings also revealed various recruitment strategies, methods, ED screening tools, and clinical cutoffs used to study this topic, making it challenging to draw firm conclusions about prevalence of EDs on college campuses. Recent research on ED screening on college campuses reveals that EDs are a significant problem among college students, and there is a marked treatment gap between those who need care and those who receive it. Implications and future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen E Fitzsimmons-Craft
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, Mailstop 8134-29-2100, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Anna M Karam
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, Mailstop 8134-29-2100, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Grace E Monterubio
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, Mailstop 8134-29-2100, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - C Barr Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for m2Health, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Denise E Wilfley
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, Mailstop 8134-29-2100, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
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15
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Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Balantekin KN, Graham AK, Smolar L, Park D, Mysko C, Funk B, Taylor CB, Wilfley DE. Results of disseminating an online screen for eating disorders across the U.S.: Reach, respondent characteristics, and unmet treatment need. Int J Eat Disord 2019; 52:721-729. [PMID: 30761560 PMCID: PMC6555644 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The treatment gap between those who need and those who receive care for eating disorders is wide. Scaling a validated, online screener that makes individuals aware of the significance of their symptoms/behaviors is a crucial first step for increasing access to care. The objective of the current study was to determine the reach of disseminating an online eating disorder screener in partnership with the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), as well to examine the probable eating disorder diagnostic and risk breakdown of adult respondents. We also assessed receipt of any treatment. METHOD Participants completed a validated eating disorder screen on the NEDA website over 6 months in 2017. RESULTS Of 71,362 respondents, 91.0% were female, 57.7% 18-24 years, 89.6% non-Hispanic, and 84.7% White. Most (86.3%) screened positive for an eating disorder. In addition, 10.2% screened as high risk for the development of an eating disorder, and only 3.4% as not at risk. Of those screening positive for an eating disorder, 85.9% had never received treatment and only 3.0% were currently in treatment. DISCUSSION The NEDA online screen may represent an important eating disorder detection tool, as it was completed by >71,000 adult respondents over just 6 months, the majority of whom screened positive for a clinical/subclinical eating disorder. The extremely high percentage of individuals screening positive for an eating disorder who reported not being in treatment suggests a wide treatment gap and the need to offer accessible, affordable, evidence-based intervention options, directly linked with screening.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrea K. Graham
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lauren Smolar
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dan Park
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claire Mysko
- National Eating Disorders Association, New York, NY, USA
| | - Burkhardt Funk
- Institute of Information Systems, Leuphana University, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - C. Barr Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for mHealth, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Denise E. Wilfley
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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16
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Feldhege J, Moessner M, Stieler C, van Stipelen J, Bauer S. Wissen und Einstellungen zu Essstörungen bei Jugendlichen mit türkischem Migrationshintergrund. PSYCHOTHERAPEUT 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00278-018-0327-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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17
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Grillot CL, Keel PK. Barriers to seeking treatment for eating disorders: The role of self-recognition in understanding gender disparities in who seeks help. Int J Eat Disord 2018; 51:1285-1289. [PMID: 30488569 DOI: 10.1002/eat.22965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous research suggests that men with eating disorders are less likely to seek treatment than are women. Given stereotypes linked to eating disorders, men may be less likely to recognize when they have an eating disorder, which could act as a barrier to treatment-seeking. METHOD The current study examined differences in self-recognition and treatment-seeking behavior by gender, controlling for other covariates, in participants with probable DSM-5 eating disorders drawn from a larger community-based sample. RESULTS Being female and self-recognition were both associated with increased likelihood of treatment-seeking while accounting for other potential covariates, including race/ethnicity, age, BMI, and comorbid disorders. DISCUSSION Results indicate that self-recognition is a barrier to seeking treatment for both genders and does not account for help-seeking differences between women and men. Findings have implications for interventions to address barriers to treatment-seeking for eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pamela K Keel
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida
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18
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Bannatyne AJ, Hughes R, Stapleton P, Watt B, MacKenzie-Shalders K. Signs and symptoms of disordered eating in pregnancy: a Delphi consensus study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2018; 18:262. [PMID: 29940882 PMCID: PMC6019208 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-018-1849-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to establish consensus on the expression and distinction of disordered eating in pregnancy to improve awareness across various health professions and inform the development of a pregnancy-specific assessment instrument. METHODS A three-round modified Delphi method was used with two independent panels. International clinicians and researchers with extensive knowledge on and/or clinical experience with eating disorders formed the first panel and were recruited using structured selection criteria. Women who identified with a lived experience of disordered eating in pregnancy formed the second panel and were recruited via expressions of interest from study advertising on pregnancy forums and social media platforms. A systematic search of academic and grey literature produced 200 sources which were used to pre-populate the Round I questionnaire. Additional items were included in Round II based on panel feedback in Round I. Consensus was defined as 75% agreement on an item. RESULTS Of the 102 items presented to the 26 professional panel members and 15 consumer panel members, 75 reached consensus across both panels. Both panels clearly identified signs and symptoms of disordered eating in pregnancy and endorsed a number of clinical features practitioners should consider when delineating disordered eating symptomatically from normative pregnancy experiences. CONCLUSION A list of signs and symptoms in consensus was identified. The areas of collective agreement may be used to guide clinicians in clinical practice, aid the development of psychometric tools to detect/assess pregnancy-specific disordered eating, in addition to serving as starting point for the development of a core outcome set to measure disordered eating in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Jean Bannatyne
- School of Psychology, Bond University, 14 University Drive, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia. .,Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Drive, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia.
| | - Roger Hughes
- School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS, 7001, Australia
| | - Peta Stapleton
- School of Psychology, Bond University, 14 University Drive, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | - Bruce Watt
- School of Psychology, Bond University, 14 University Drive, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | - Kristen MacKenzie-Shalders
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Drive, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
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19
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Goodman EL, Breithaupt L, Watson HJ, Peat CM, Baker JH, Bulik CM, Brownley KA. Sweet taste preference in binge-eating disorder: A preliminary investigation. Eat Behav 2018; 28:8-15. [PMID: 29202335 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that individuals with high liking for sweets are at increased risk for binge eating, which has been minimally investigated in individuals with binge-eating disorder (BED). Forty-one adults (85% female, 83% white) with binge eating concerns completed a sweet taste test and measures of eating disorder behaviors and food cravings. A subset of participants with BED completed an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT; N=21) and a 24-hour dietary recall (N=26). Regression models were used to compare highest sweet preferers (HSP [N=18]) to other sweet preferers (OSP [N=23]) and were used to assess associations between sweet taste preference and outcome variables. Effect sizes (ηp2) for differences between HSP and OSP ranged from small (≤0.01) to large (≥0.24); group differences were statistically nonsignificant except for 24-hour caloric intake (ηp2=0.16, p=0.04), protein intake (ηp2=0.16, p=0.04), and insulin sensitivity index (ηp2=0.24, p=0.04), which were higher in HSP, and postprandial insulin, which was smaller in HSP (ηp2=0.27, p=0.03). Continuous analyses replicated postprandial insulin response. Compared with OSP, HSP reported numerically higher binge-eating frequency (ηp2=0.04), over-eating frequency (ηp2=0.06), and carbohydrate intake (ηp2=0.14), and they exhibited numerically smaller postprandial glucose AUC (ηp2=0.16). Sweet taste preference may have implications for glucose regulation, binge-eating frequency, and nutrient intake in BED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Goodman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Department of Psychology, University of North Dakota, United States
| | - Lauren Breithaupt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Department of Psychology, George Mason University, United States; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hunna J Watson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia; School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Christine M Peat
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Department of Neurosurgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Jessica H Baker
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Kimberly A Brownley
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States.
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20
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Slewa-Younan S, Yaser A, Guajardo MGU, Mannan H, Smith CA, Mond JM. The mental health and help-seeking behaviour of resettled Afghan refugees in Australia. Int J Ment Health Syst 2017; 11:49. [PMID: 28855961 PMCID: PMC5571658 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-017-0157-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Psychological trauma, in particular, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, are highly prevalent among resettled refugees. However, little is known regarding the mental health status and associated help-seeking behaviour of resettled Afghan refugees in Australia. Methods A sample of 150 resettled Afghan refugees (74 males; mean age 32.8 years, SD = 12.2) living in Adelaide, South Australia were recruited. Self-reported measures of PTSD, depression, exposure to traumatic events, functional impairment, self-recognition of PTSD symptomatology and help-seeking behaviours were completed. Multivariate analysis of variables associated with help-seeking was conducted. Results Forty-four percent of participants met criteria for clinically significant PTSD symptoms and all but one participant reported being exposed to 1 or more traumatic and/or conflict related events, such as ‘losing your property and wealth’. Moreover, 14.7% of participants had symptoms suggestive of clinically significant depression. General practitioners were the most common source of help in relation to mental health problems, with very few participants (4.6%) seeking help from specialist trauma and torture mental health services. Self-recognition of having a PTSD related mental health problem and functional impairment levels were both found to be independent predictors of help-seeking (p ≤ .05). Conclusions The findings provide further evidence for high rates of PTSD symptomatology and low uptake of mental care among resettled refugees. Poor self-recognition of the presence and/or adverse impact of PTSD symptoms may need to be targeted in mental health promotion programs designed to improve “mental health literacy” and thereby promote early and appropriate help-seeking where this is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shameran Slewa-Younan
- Mental Health, School of Medicine, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith South DC, Sydney, NSW Australia.,Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anisa Yaser
- Mental Health, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Maria Gabriela Uribe Guajardo
- Mental Health, School of Medicine, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Haider Mannan
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Caroline A Smith
- National Institute of Complementary Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Mond
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.,School of Medicine, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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21
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Del Valle G, Belloch A, Carrió C. The long and complex road in the search for treatment for mental disorders: An analysis of the process in five groups of patients. Psychiatry Res 2017; 253:1-8. [PMID: 28319785 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/11/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Seeking treatment for mental-health problems is a complex process, with different underlying motives in each stage. However, the entire process and these motives have hardly been investigated. This study aims to analyze the different stages of the help-seeking process and their underlying motives in five groups of patients with different mental disorders. In all, 156 patients seeking treatment in outpatient mental health clinics were individually interviewed: 71 had Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), 21 had Agoraphobia (AGO), 18 had Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), 20 had Anorexia Nervosa (AN), and 22 had Cocaine Dependence (COC). The AGO and MDD patients delayed significantly less time in recognizing their mental health symptoms. Moreover, MDD patients disclosed their symptoms and searched for professional help faster than the other groups. The most relevant variables in the recognition of disorders were the loss of control over the symptoms, the interference produced by these symptoms, and their negative impact on the person's emotional state. The most frequent barriers to seeking treatment were related to minimizing the symptoms and fear of stigma. Finally, the most important motivator for seeking treatment was the awareness that minimizing the symptoms did not help to reduce them, lessen their interference, or make them disappear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gema Del Valle
- Agencia Valenciana de Salud (Health Government of Valencia), Mental Health Outpatient Clinic, Department 04, Sants de la Pedra Ave., n. 81, 46500 Sagunto, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Amparo Belloch
- Faculty of Psychology, Department of Personality Psychology, Research and Treatment Unit of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, I'TOC, University of Valencia, Ave. Blasco Ibañez 21, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Carmen Carrió
- Agencia Valenciana de Salud (Health Government of Valencia), Mental Health Outpatient Clinic, Department 06, Rubert i Villo Rd., n. 4, 46100 Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.
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22
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Gratwick-Sarll K, Bentley C, Harrison C, Mond J. Poor self-recognition of disordered eating among girls with bulimic-type eating disorders: cause for concern? Early Interv Psychiatry 2016; 10:316-23. [PMID: 25112818 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM Bulimic-type eating disorders are common among young women and associated with high levels of distress and disability and low uptake of mental health care. We examined self-recognition of disordered eating and factors associated with this among female adolescents with bulimic-type eating disorders (n = 139) recruited from a large, population-based sample. METHODS A vignette of a fictional character with bulimia nervosa was presented, followed by a series of questions addressing the nature and treatment of the problem described. One of these questions required participants to indicate whether they currently had a problem such as the one described. Self-report measures of eating disorder symptoms, general psychological distress and quality of life were also completed. RESULTS More than half of participants (58%) did not believe that they currently had a problem with their eating. In multivariable analysis, impairment in emotional well-being and self-induced vomiting were the only variables independently associated with self-recognition. Participants who recognized a problem with their eating were more likely to have sought treatment for an eating problem than those who did not. CONCLUSIONS Recognition of disordered eating among adolescents with bulimic-type eating disorders may be poor and this may be a factor in low uptake of mental health care. Health promotion efforts may need to address the misconception that only bulimic-type disorders involving self-induced vomiting are pathological.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassandra Gratwick-Sarll
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Caroline Bentley
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Carmel Harrison
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Jonathan Mond
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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23
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Stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs toward bulimia nervosa: the importance of knowledge and eating disorder symptoms. J Nerv Ment Dis 2015; 203:259-63. [PMID: 25751709 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000000275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Widely held stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs toward bulimic eating disorders may lead to self-blame and reduced treatment seeking. Knowledge and familiarity with mental disorders may help decrease associated stigma. However, these relationships are not well understood in bulimia nervosa (BN). A community sample of 1828 adults aged 18 to 70 years completed a survey assessing stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs toward BN, knowledge and familiarity with the disorder, as well as levels of eating disorder symptoms. Knowledge of BN was negatively associated with three dimensions of stigmatization, personal responsibility (ρ = -0.28), unreliability (ρ = -0.19), and advantages of BN (ρ = -0.23). Familiarity revealed no association with stigmatization. Both men and women with high levels of eating disorder symptoms perceived BN as less serious than the participants with low levels of symptoms. Increasing community knowledge about bulimia may help mitigate stigmatization and perceived barriers to treatment.
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24
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Micali N, Kothari R, Nam KW, Gioroukou E, Walshe M, Allin M, Rifkin L, Murray RM, Nosarti C. Eating disorder psychopathology, brain structure, neuropsychological correlates and risk mechanisms in very preterm young adults. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2015; 23:147-55. [PMID: 25645448 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates the prevalence of eating disorder (ED) psychopathology, neuropsychological function, structural brain correlates and risk mechanisms in a prospective cohort of very preterm (VPT) young adults. We assessed ED psychopathology and neuropsychological correlates in 143 cohort individuals born at <33 weeks of gestation. Structural brain correlates and risk factors at birth, in childhood and adolescence, were investigated using prospectively collected data throughout childhood/adolescence. VPT-born individuals had high levels of ED psychopathology at age 21 years. Executive function did not correlate with ED symptomatology. VPT adults presenting with ED psychopathology had smaller grey matter volume at age 14/15 years in the left posterior cerebellum and smaller white matter volume in the fusiform gyrus bilaterally, compared with VPT adults with no ED psychopathology. Caesarean delivery predicted engaging in compensatory behaviours, and severe eating difficulty at age 14 years predicted ED symptomatology in young adulthood. VPT individuals are at risk for ED symptomatology, with evidence of associated structural alterations in posterior brain regions. Further prospective studies are needed to clarify the pathways that lead from perinatal/obstetric complications to ED and relevant neurobiological mechanisms. © 2015 The Authors. European Eating Disorders Review published by John Wiley &Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Micali
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
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25
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Bentley C, Gratwick-Sarll K, Mond J. Perceived psychosocial impairment associated with eating disorder features: responses to a mental health literacy intervention. J Eat Disord 2015; 3:46. [PMID: 26635962 PMCID: PMC4668649 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-015-0084-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether and to what extent young adults are aware of the adverse impact of eating disorder features (EDF) on psychosocial functioning is unclear, although such awareness may affect the experience and behavior of sufferers. The aim of the current study was to examine young adults' perceptions of psychosocial impairment associated with EDF, and the potential effect on these perceptions of an eating disorders "mental health literacy" (ED-MHL) intervention. METHODS Undergraduate students (male: n = 35; female: n = 141) completed self-report questionnaires prior to, immediately following, and 3 months after completion of a 3-h ED-MHL intervention. Perceived psychosocial impairment associated with EDF-binge eating, purging, extreme dietary restriction, overvaluation of weight/shape, and excessive exercise-was assessed at each time point. RESULTS At all 3 time points, EDF were considered to have a 'slightly negative' to 'very negative' impact on psychosocial functioning. Prior to the intervention, binge eating, purging and extreme dietary restriction were generally considered to have a greater negative impact than excessive exercise and overvaluation of weight/shape. Three months after the ED-MHL intervention, participants reported greater perceived impairment associated with excessive exercise and overvaluation; while perceptions of psychosocial impairment associated with binge eating, purging and dietary restriction remained largely unchanged. Females perceived greater impairment associated with EDF than males did immediately after the intervention, but not at the 3-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The adverse effects on psychosocial functioning of binge eating, purging and extreme dietary restriction appear to be readily recognized by young people. Awareness of the adverse effects of excessive exercise and overvaluation may be poorer, but amenable to improvement by means of a relatively simple intervention. These features may warrant particular attention in health promotion programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Bentley
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200 Australia
| | | | - Jonathan Mond
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200 Australia ; Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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26
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Gratwick-Sarll K, Bentley C. Improving eating disorders mental health literacy: a preliminary evaluation of the "Should I say something?" workshop. Eat Disord 2014; 22:405-19. [PMID: 24964314 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2014.925764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
A repeated measures, uncontrolled, preliminary evaluation of a single 3-hour workshop-"Should I Say Something?"-aimed at improving eating disorders mental health literacy, was conducted in a sample of 177 university undergraduates. Following participation in the workshop, significant increases in eating disorder recognition and knowledge, and significant decreases in stigmatizing attitudes, were reported by participants. Moreover, 85% of participants reported that they provided assistance to someone whom they suspected had a mental health condition, including an eating disorder, during the 3-month follow-up period. This study provides preliminary evidence that "Should I Say Something?" may be effective in improving the mental health literacy of young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassandra Gratwick-Sarll
- a Research School of Psychology , Australian National University , Canberra , Australian Capital Territory , Australia
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27
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Swami V, Knowles V. Mental health literacy of negative body image: symptom recognition and beliefs about body image in a British community sample. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/17542863.2013.769611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Gratwick-Sarll K, Mond J, Hay P. Self-recognition of eating-disordered behavior in college women: further evidence of poor eating disorders "mental health literacy"? Eat Disord 2013; 21:310-27. [PMID: 23767672 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2013.797321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Self-recognition of eating-disordered behavior was examined among female college students (n = 94) with a high level of bulimic-type eating disorder symptoms. A vignette was presented describing a fictional young woman with bulimia nervosa. Participants were asked whether they might currently have a problem such as the one described, while also completing self-report measures of eating disorder symptoms, general psychological distress, and functional impairment. Less than half (47.9%) of participants believed that they currently had a problem with their eating. In both bivariate and multivariable analysis, the variables most strongly associated with self-recognition were overall levels of eating disorder psychopathology, prior treatment for an eating problem, and the use of self-induced vomiting as a means of controlling weight or shape. No other eating disorder behaviors were independently associated with self-recognition. The findings support the hypothesis that young women with eating disorder symptoms may be unlikely, or at least less likely, to recognize a problem with their eating behavior when that behavior does not entail self-induced vomiting. Health promotion and early intervention programs for eating disorders may need to address the perception that, among young women of normal or above-average body weight, only problems with eating that involve self-induced vomiting are pathological.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassandra Gratwick-Sarll
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Acton, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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Mond JM. Classification of bulimic-type eating disorders: from DSM-IV to DSM-5. J Eat Disord 2013; 1:33. [PMID: 24999412 PMCID: PMC4081768 DOI: 10.1186/2050-2974-1-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Proposed changes to the classification of bulimic-type eating disorders in the lead up to the publication of DSM-5 are reviewed. Several of the proposed changes, including according formal diagnostic status to binge eating disorder (BED), removing the separation of bulimia nervosa (BN) into purging and non-purging subtypes, and reducing the binge frequency threshold from twice per week to once per week for both BN and (BED), have considerable empirical evidence to support them and will likely have the effect of facilitating clinical practice, improving access to care, improving public and professional awareness and understanding of these disorders and stimulating the additional research needed to address at least some problematic issues. However, the omission of any reference to variants of BN characterized by subjective, but not objective, binge eating episodes, and to the undue influence of weight or shape on self-evaluation or similar cognitive criterion in relation to the diagnosis of BED, is regrettable, given their potential to inform clinical and research practice and given that there is considerable evidence to support specific reference to these distinctions. Other aspects of the proposed criteria, such as retention of behavioral indicators of impaired control associated with binge eating and the presence of marked distress regarding binge eating among the diagnostic for BED, appear anomalous in that there is little or no evidence to support their validity or clinical utility. It is hoped that these issues will be addressed in final phase of the DSM-5 development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- Research School of Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 0200, Australia
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Arcelus J, Whight D, Brewin N, McGrain L. A brief form of interpersonal psychotherapy for adult patients with bulimic disorders: a pilot study. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2012; 20:326-30. [PMID: 22383297 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2011] [Revised: 01/23/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to pilot a brief form of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for the treatment of patients with bulimic disorders. METHOD Ten patients with bulimic disorder treated with a new brief version of IPT (IPT-BN10) completed measurements of eating disorders psychopathology (Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire, Bulimic Investigatory Test Edinburgh) and depression (Beck Depression Inventory). The results were matched with a group of patients treated with conventional IPT and with waiting list control. RESULTS Statistical differences were found between starting and ending of therapy for those patients treated with IPT-BN10. Statistical difference was also found when comparing with waiting list control. DISCUSSION The pilot study suggests that IPT-BN10 may be an effective treatment for patients having bulimic disorders; however, this hypothesis needs to be tested in an experimental way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Arcelus
- Leicester Eating Disorders Service, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Leicester, UK.
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DeJong H, Hillcoat J, Perkins S, Grover M, Schmidt U. Illness perception in bulimia nervosa. J Health Psychol 2011; 17:399-408. [DOI: 10.1177/1359105311416874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The study was designed to extend our understanding of illness perceptions in patients with bulimia nervosa (BN). Seventy-eight participants with BN or BN-type Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS-BN) completed the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) ( Moss-Morris et al., 2002 ). Clinical variables were also assessed. Participants experienced their ED as chronic, with serious consequences and high associated levels of anxiety and depression. The disorder was attributed primarily to psychological causes. The results indicate the perceived severity of BN, and high level of associated distress. These findings highlight the potential for targeting illness perceptions in treatment.
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Mond JM, Arrighi A. Gender differences in perceptions of the severity and prevalence of eating disorders. Early Interv Psychiatry 2011; 5:41-9. [PMID: 21272274 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-7893.2010.00257.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Gender differences in perceptions of the severity and prevalence of anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) were examined in young men (n=113) and women (n=289) recruited from a regional university campus in north-east Australia. METHODS Participants viewed vignettes of fictional (female) sufferers of AN and BN and responded to the same series of questions in relation to each vignette. RESULTS For both vignettes, a substantial minority of male, but not female, participants indicated that they would be a little or not at all sympathetic to someone with the problem described, that the problem described would be a little or not at all difficult to treat, and that having the problem described would be moderately or a little distressing. Men were also more likely than women to consider BN to be primarily a problem of 'lack of will-power/self-control'. Perceptions of the prevalence of AN (modal response = 'very few women/10% or less') and BN ('10% to 30%') did not differ by gender and both male and female participants considered AN to be more severe and less common than BN. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that there may be a need to target the attitudes and beliefs of young men in particular in the prevention and early intervention initiatives for eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Western Sydney, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia.
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Mond JM, Hay PJ, Paxton SJ, Rodgers B, Darby A, Nillson J, Quirk F, Owen C. Eating disorders "mental health literacy" in low risk, high risk and symptomatic women: implications for health promotion programs. Eat Disord 2010; 18:267-85. [PMID: 20603729 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2010.490115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Attitudes and beliefs concerning the nature and treatment of bulimia nervosa (BN) were compared among young adult women at low risk of an eating disorder (n = 332), at high risk (n = 83), or already showing symptoms (n = 94). Participants completed a self-report questionnaire that included a measure of eating disorder symptoms. A vignette of a fictional person suffering from BN was presented, followed by a series of questions addressing the nature and treatment of the problem described. High-risk and symptomatic participants were more likely than low-risk participants to report that they would not approach anyone for advice or help, were they to have BN or a similar problem, because they would not want anyone to know. Symptomatic participants were more likely to believe that someone with BN would be discriminated against, more likely to consider bulimic behaviors to be acceptable, and more likely to view BN as being common among women in the community, than low-risk participants, participants in the high-risk group being intermediate on each of these questions. The findings suggest that the attitudes and beliefs of individuals with eating disorder symptoms differ systematically from those of individuals at high risk, but who do not yet have symptoms, and from those at low risk. They also indicate specific attitudes and beliefs that may need to be addressed in prevention and early intervention programs. The potential benefits of assessing individuals' attitudes and beliefs concerning the nature and treatment of eating-disordered behaviour and tailoring program content accordingly may be worthy of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Western Sydney, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia
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Mond JM, Peterson CB, Hay PJ. Prior use of extreme weight-control behaviors in a community sample of women with binge eating disorder or subthreshold binge eating disorder: a descriptive study. Int J Eat Disord 2010; 43:440-6. [PMID: 19551718 PMCID: PMC5558594 DOI: 10.1002/eat.20707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND METHOD The prior occurrence of regular extreme weight-control behaviors was examined in a community sample of women (n = 27) with binge eating disorder (BED) or subthreshold BED. RESULTS Approximately two thirds of participants (65.4%) reported the prior use of either purging at least weekly or nonpurging behaviors three or more times per week, for a period of 3 months or more, whereas 38.5% of participants reported either purging at least twice weekly or nonpurging behaviors five or more times per week. Comparatively few participants (11.1%) had ever met formal diagnostic criteria for BN. DISCUSSION Considerable overlap between disorders characterized by binge eating in the absence of extreme weight-control behaviors and those characterized by extreme weight-control behaviors in the absence of binge eating may be apparent when a longitudinal perspective is taken. Caution needs to be exercised in drawing conclusions concerning the extent of this overlap based on any one operational definition of the term "regular extreme weight-control behaviors".
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Western Sydney, Campbelltown, Australia.
| | - Carol B Peterson
- School of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Phillipa J Hay
- School of Medicine, University of Western Sydney, Campbelltown, Australia
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Mond JM, Myers TC, Crosby RD, Hay PJ, Mitchell JE. Bulimic eating disorders in primary care: hidden morbidity still? J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2010; 17:56-63. [PMID: 20039194 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-009-9180-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined the features of women with bulimic-type eating disorders (n = 24) attending primary care in two smaller urban regions of the USA. The assessment included measures of eating disorder psychopathology, medical comorbidity, impairment in role functioning, potential barriers to treatment and actual use of health services. Eating disorders, primarily variants of bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder not meeting formal diagnostic criteria, were associated with marked impairment in psychosocial functioning. Although two-thirds of participants recognized a problem with their eating, less than 40% had ever sought treatment from a health professional for an eating or weight problem and only one in ten had sought such treatment from a mental health specialist. Only one-third had ever been asked about problems with eating by a primary care practitioner or other health professional. However, more than 80% had sought treatment from a health professional for symptoms of anxiety or depression. Most reported some degree of discomfort in discussing eating problems with others, and half reported that they would not be truthful about such problems if asked. Having an eating disorder was associated with several chronic medical conditions, including joint pain, gastrointestinal problems and fatigue. Although the small sample size limits any firm conclusions, the findings suggest that the health burden of bulimic-type eating disorders is substantial but remains largely hidden. Efforts may be needed to improve the eating disorders "mental health literacy" of both patients and primary care practitioners in order to facilitate early, appropriate intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Western Sydney, Campbelltown Campus, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith DC, NSW 1797, Australia.
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Mond JM, Latner JD, Hay PH, Owen C, Rodgers B. Objective and subjective bulimic episodes in the classification of bulimic-type eating disorders: another nail in the coffin of a problematic distinction. Behav Res Ther 2010; 48:661-9. [PMID: 20434132 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2010.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2009] [Revised: 03/25/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We sought to further explore the validity of the distinction between objective bulimic episodes (OBEs) and subjective bulimic episodes (SBEs) in the study of bulimic-type eating disorders. Drawing on data obtained at the second, interview phase of a large-scale epidemiological study, we identified mutually exclusive subgroups of women with bulimic-type eating disorders who engaged in regular OBEs but not SBEs (n = 37) or regular SBEs but not OBEs (n = 52). These subgroups were compared on a wide range of outcomes, including socio-demographic characteristics, current levels of eating disorder psychopathology, general psychological distress and impairment in role functioning, current and lifetime impairment in quality of life specifically associated with an eating problem, (self)-recognition of an eating problem, health service utilization and use of psychotropic medication. The only difference between groups was that participants who reported regular OBEs were heavier than those who reported regular SBEs. The findings converge with those of previous research in suggesting that bulimic-type eating disorders characterized by regular SBEs, but not OBEs, do not differ in any clinically meaningful way from those characterized by regular OBEs, but not SBEs. Inclusion of bulimic-type eating disorders characterized by regular SBEs as a provisional category requiring further research in DSM-V appears warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Mond
- School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Western Sydney, Campbelltown, Australia.
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Chen A, Mond JM, Kumar R. Eating disorders mental health literacy in Singapore: beliefs of young adult women concerning treatment and outcome of bulimia nervosa. Early Interv Psychiatry 2010; 4:39-46. [PMID: 20199479 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-7893.2009.00156.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM We examined the eating disorders 'mental health literacy' of young adult women in Singapore. METHODS A self-report questionnaire was completed by 255 women recruited from three university campuses. A vignette of a fictional (female) person exhibiting the characteristic features of bulimia nervosa was presented, followed by a series of questions concerning the treatment and outcome of the problem described. A measure of eating disorder symptoms was included in the questionnaire. RESULTS Consulting a primary care practitioner, counsellor or psychologist; seeking the advice of a (female) family member or friend; getting advice about diet and nutrition; and taking vitamins and minerals were the interventions most often considered helpful. Participants were less positive about the benefits of psychiatristsand were ambivalent about the use of psychotropic medication. Participants' mothers were most often considered helpful as they are an initial source of help. Among participants with a high level of eating disorder symptoms, recognition of an eating problem was poor. A minority of participants believed that treatment would result in full recovery. CONCLUSIONS Aspects of the eating disorders mental health literacy of young Singaporean women may be conducive to low or inappropriate treatment seeking. Health promotion programmes need to target not only at-risk individuals, but also their family members and social circle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Chen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore.
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Mond JM, Hay PJ. Use of extreme weight-control behaviors in the absence of binge eating with and without subjective bulimic episodes: a community-based study. Int J Eat Disord 2010; 43:35-41. [PMID: 19260042 DOI: 10.1002/eat.20667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND METHODS In a community sample of women who reported the use of extreme weight-control behaviors in the absence of binge eating, subgroups of participants who reported (n = 23) and who did not report (n = 42) recurrent subjective bulimic episodes (SBEs) were compared on a range of outcomes, including current levels of eating disorder and comorbid psychopathology. RESULTS Participants who reported SBEs had higher levels of eating disorder psychopathology, impairment in role functioning, and general psychological distress, than those who did not. Scores on these measures among participants who reported SBEs were similar to those of eating disorder patients receiving specialist treatment, whereas those of participants who did not have recurrent SBEs tended to be intermediate between eating disorder patients and healthy women. DISCUSSION The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that it is the combination of SBEs and extreme weight-control behaviors, rather than extreme weight-control behaviors per se, that indicates clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Psychological Science, LaTrobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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Wilson GT, Perrin NA, Rosselli F, Striegel-Moore RH, Debar LL, Kraemer HC. Beliefs about eating and eating disorders. Eat Behav 2009; 10:157-60. [PMID: 19665098 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2009.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2008] [Revised: 03/20/2009] [Accepted: 03/30/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Beliefs about foods and binge eating may influence the development and maintenance of eating disorders and the likelihood that people will seek treatment. We found that the majority of a random sample of members of a large health maintenance organization considered binge eating a problem for which there are effective treatments. Self-reported binge eaters, however, were significantly less likely to agree that there are effective treatments. Two thirds of the sample reported that certain foods are addictive and also believed that strict dieting is an effective means of reducing binge eating. Therapeutic implications of these attitudes are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Terence Wilson
- Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020, United States.
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Arcelus J, Whight D, Langham C, Baggott J, McGrain L, Meadows L, Meyer C. A case series evaluation of a modified version of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for the treatment of bulimic eating disorders: A pilot study. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2009; 17:260-8. [DOI: 10.1002/erv.932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Keski-Rahkonen A, Hoek HW, Linna MS, Raevuori A, Sihvola E, Bulik CM, Rissanen A, Kaprio J. Incidence and outcomes of bulimia nervosa: a nationwide population-based study. Psychol Med 2009; 39:823-831. [PMID: 18775085 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291708003942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the epidemiology of bulimia nervosa outside clinical settings. We report the incidence, prevalence and outcomes of bulimia nervosa using for the first time a nationwide study design. METHOD To assess the incidence and natural course and outcomes of DSM-IV bulimia nervosa among women from the general population, women (n=2881) from the 1975-79 birth cohorts of Finnish twins were screened for lifetime eating disorders using a two-stage procedure consisting of a questionnaire screen and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID). Clinical recovery was defined as 1-year abstinence from bingeing and purging combined with a body mass index (BMI) 19 kg/m2. RESULTS The lifetime prevalence of DSM-IV bulimia nervosa was 2.3%; 76% of the women suffered from its purging subtype and 24% from the non-purging subtype. The incidence rate of bulimia nervosa was 300/100000 person-years at the peak age of incidence, 16-20 years, and 150/100000 at 10-24 years. The 5-year clinical recovery rate was 55.0%. Less than a third of the cases had been detected by health-care professionals; detection did not influence outcome. After clinical recovery from bulimia nervosa, the mean levels of residual psychological symptoms gradually decreased over time but many women continued to experience significantly more body image problems and psychosomatic symptoms than never-ill women. CONCLUSIONS Few women with bulimia nervosa are recognized in health-care settings. Symptoms of bulimia are relatively long-standing, and recovery is gradual. Many clinically recovered women experience residual psychological symptoms after attaining abstinence from bingeing and purging.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE In order to elucidate the nature of excessive exercise among individuals with eating disorders, exercise behaviours were compared between eating disorder patients receiving specialist treatment and healthy women, and between subgroups of patients. METHODS Self-report measures of obligatory exercise, motivation for exercise and frequency of hard exercise for weight or shape reasons were completed by eating disorder patients (n=102) and healthy women (n=184). RESULTS The experience of intense guilt when exercise is missed and exercising solely or primarily for reasons of weight, shape or physical attractiveness, were the exercise behaviours that most clearly differentiated between women with eating disorders and healthy women. Patients with the purging form of anorexia nervosa (n=13) and those with bulimia nervosa (n=41) tended to have higher scores on measures of these behaviours than those with the restricting form of anorexia nervosa (n=15). CONCLUSIONS Research addressing the prevalence and correlates of excessive exercise in eating disorder patients would benefit from a broader assessment of exercise behaviour than has typically been used in previous studies. In addition, the findings may indicate specific targets for the clinical management of excessive exercise as well as for community-based health promotion initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Psychological Science, LaTrobe University, Bundoora, Australia.
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Patton GC, Coffey C, Carlin JB, Sanci L, Sawyer S. Prognosis of adolescent partial syndromes of eating disorder. Br J Psychiatry 2008; 192:294-9. [PMID: 18378993 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.106.031112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partial syndromes of eating disorder are common in adolescents but the health significance of these syndromes remains uncertain. AIMS To document the health and social adjustment in young adulthood of females assessed as having a partial syndrome of eating disorder in adolescence. METHOD A community sample of 1943 participants was tracked over 10 years in an eight-wave cohort study. A partial syndrome was defined as the fulfilment of at least two DSM-IV criteria for either anorexia or bulimia nervosa at one assessment or more between the ages of 15 years and 17 years. RESULTS Partial syndromes were found in 9.4% of 15- to 17-year-old female participants and 1.4% of males. There were few instances of progression of partial syndromes to fully fledged anorexia and bulimia nervosa. However, among those with partial syndromes depressive and anxiety symptoms were two to three times higher in young adulthood, substance misuse was common, and a majority of those with a partial syndrome of anorexia nervosa were still underweight in their mid-20s. CONCLUSIONS Given the level of subsequent psychopathology and social role impairment, there may be justification for initiating trials of preventive and early clinical intervention strategies for adolescent partial syndromes.
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Mond JM, Myers TC, Crosby RD, Hay PJ, Rodgers B, Morgan JF, Lacey JH, Mitchell JE. Screening for eating disorders in primary care: EDE-Q versus SCOFF. Behav Res Ther 2008; 46:612-22. [PMID: 18359005 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2008.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2007] [Revised: 02/02/2008] [Accepted: 02/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND METHODS The comparative validity of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) (22 items) and SCOFF (five items) in screening for cases of the more commonly occurring eating disorders was examined in a primary care sample of young adult women (n=257). Diagnoses were confirmed in a sub-group of interviewed participants (n=147). RESULTS Twenty-five cases, primarily variants of bulimia nervosa (BN) not meeting formal diagnostic criteria, were identified in the interviewed sample. An EDE-Q global score of >or= 2.80 yielded the optimal trade-off between sensitivity (Se) (0.80) and specificity (Sp) (0.80) (positive predictive value (PPV)=0.44), whereas a score of two or more positive responses on the SCOFF was optimal (Se=0.72, Sp=0.73, PPV=0.35). Validity coefficients for both measures varied as a function of participants' age and body weight, although these effects were more pronounced for the SCOFF. CONCLUSIONS Both measures performed well in terms of their ability to detect cases and to exclude non-cases of the more commonly occurring eating disorders in a primary care setting. The EDE-Q performed somewhat better than the SCOFF and was more robust to effects on validity of age and weight. These findings need to be weighed against the advantage of the SCOFF in terms of its brevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Psychological Science, LaTrobe University, Bundoora Victoria 3086, Australia.
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Mond JM, Hay PJ, Rodgers B, Owen C. Self-report versus interview assessment of purging in a community sample of women. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2007; 15:403-9. [PMID: 17960776 DOI: 10.1002/erv.792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND METHODS Agreement between self-report and interview assessment of purging behaviours was examined in a community sample of women with a high level of eating disorder symptoms (n = 324) who completed both the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) and Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). RESULTS Of 46 individuals who reported any use of self-induced vomiting or laxative misuse on the questionnaire, 19 (41.7%) denied these behaviours when subsequently questioned in a face-to-face interview. These individuals had lower levels of eating disorder psychopathology, functional impairment and general psychological distress, than participants who reported purging on both the questionnaire and at interview (n = 27). CONCLUSIONS The assumption of interview superiority in the assessment of specific aspects of eating disorder psychopathology should not be uncritically accepted. Caution should be exercised in drawing conclusions concerning the level of agreement between self-report and interview assessment of purging based on research in clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Mond
- School of Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville QLD, 4811 Australia.
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Mond JM, Rodgers B, Hay PJ, Darby A, Owen C, Baune BT, Kennedy RL. Obesity and impairment in psychosocial functioning in women: the mediating role of eating disorder features. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2007; 15:2769-79. [PMID: 18070768 DOI: 10.1038/oby.2007.329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to test the hypothesis that, in women, the association between obesity and impairment in psychosocial functioning is mediated by levels of weight and shape concerns and/or binge-eating frequency. RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES Self-report measures of eating disorder psychopathology, mental health functioning, subjective quality of life in the psychological and social domains, and days "out-of-role" associated with any (physical or mental) health problem, were completed by a community sample of women classified as obese (BMI >or=30 kg/m(2), n = 639) or non-obese (BMI <30 kg/m(2), n = 4253). For each of the dependent measures, regression models were used to test the hypothesis of mediation by comparing the strength of the relationship between independent and dependent variables with and without inclusion of the putative mediator in the regression model. RESULTS On each measure, the conditions for perfect mediation were satisfied when weight or shape concerns acted as the putative mediator, indicating that there was no association between obesity and functional impairment after controlling for weight or shape concerns. In contrast, associations between obesity and impairment in psychosocial functioning remained highly significant when binge-eating frequency was the putative mediator. DISCUSSION The findings suggest that in women, weight and shape concerns are an important mediator of the relationship between obesity and impairment in psychosocial functioning, whereas binge eating may not be of primary importance. A greater focus on body acceptance in obesity treatment may be indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
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Lee SW, Stewart SM, Striegel-Moore RH, Lee S, Ho SY, Lee PWH, Katzman MA, Lam TH. Validation of the eating disorder diagnostic scale for use with Hong Kong adolescents. Int J Eat Disord 2007; 40:569-74. [PMID: 17584872 DOI: 10.1002/eat.20413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the psychometric properties of the Eating Disorder Diagnostic Scale (EDDS) in a community sample of Hong Kong school children. METHOD Participants (359 boys and 387 girls), aged 12 to 19 years, were assessed on the EDDS on two occasions, one month apart. Factor structure, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and validity against the Eating Disorders Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) were investigated. RESULTS Four groupings emerged on exploratory factor analysis: body dissatisfaction, bingeing behaviors, bingeing frequency, and frequency of compensatory behaviors. Items loaded on the same factors for boys and girls. Internal consistency for these factors was acceptable. Test-retest reliability was high for body dissatisfaction factor but weak to moderate for other factors and for diagnoses. High concurrent validity with the EDE-Q, and correlation with the CES-D was shown. CONCLUSION We offer preliminary reliability and validity evidence to support the further development of the EDDS as a screening instrument to assess eating disturbances in Hong Kong youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie W Lee
- Department of Community Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Mond J, Marks P. Beliefs of adolescent girls concerning the severity and prevalence of bulimia nervosa. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/00049530601148413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Mond
- Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland
| | - Peta Marks
- NSW Centre for Eating and Dieting Disorders, Central Sydney Area Health Service, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Mond JM, Hay PJ, Rodgers B, Owen C. Health service utilization for eating disorders: findings from a community-based study. Int J Eat Disord 2007; 40:399-408. [PMID: 17497708 DOI: 10.1002/eat.20382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior use of health services was examined in a community sample of women with bulimic-type eating disorders. METHOD Participants (n = 159) completed a structured interview for the assessment of eating disorder psychopathology as well as questions concerning treatment-seeking and type of treatment received. RESULTS Whereas a minority (40.3%) of participants had received treatment for an eating problem, most had received treatment for a general mental health problem (74.2%) and/or weight loss (72.8%), and all had used one or more self-help treatments. Where treatment was received for an eating or general mental health problem, this was from a primary care practitioner in the vast majority of cases. Only half of those participants who reported marked impairment associated with an eating problem had ever received treatment for such a problem and less than one in five had received such treatment from a mental health professional. CONCLUSION Women with bulimic-type eating disorders rarely receive treatment for an eating problem, but frequently receive treatment for a general mental health problem and/or for weight loss. The findings underscore the importance of programs designed to improve the detection and management of eating disorders in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- School of Psychological Science, La Trobe University, Bundoore VIC 3083, Australia.
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Mond JM, Hay PJ, Rodgers B, Owen C. Recurrent binge eating with and without the "undue influence of weight or shape on self-evaluation": implications for the diagnosis of binge eating disorder. Behav Res Ther 2006; 45:929-38. [PMID: 17010307 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2006.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2006] [Revised: 08/10/2006] [Accepted: 08/18/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Levels of eating disorder psychopathology, impairment in psycho-social functioning and use of health services were compared among probable cases of binge eating disorder (BED) with and without extreme weight or shape concerns ("undue influence of weight or shape on self-evaluation") recruited from a large community sample of women. Data for obese non-binge eaters (n=457), also recruited from the community sample, and for a clinical sample of eating disorder patients (n=128), recruited separately, were included for comparative purposes. BED cases who reported extreme weight or shape concerns (n=51, 46.4%) had significantly higher levels of eating disorder psychopathology and functional impairment than those who did not report such concerns (n=59), after controlling for between-group differences in age and body weight. In addition, BED cases who reported extreme weight or shape concerns were more likely to have sought treatment for an eating or weight problem than those who did not. Whereas levels of eating disorder psychopathology and functional impairment were markedly elevated among BED cases with extreme weight or shape concerns, BED cases who did not report extreme weight or shape concerns resembled obese non-binge eaters in most respects. The findings support the inclusion of an undue influence of weight or shape on self-evaluation as a diagnostic criterion for BED. In the absence of this influence, eating disorders that otherwise resemble BED do not appear to be "clinically significant".
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Mond
- Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld. 4811, Australia.
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