"Now It's Just Old Habits and Misery"-Understanding the Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on People With Current or Life-Time Eating Disorders: A Qualitative Study

Frontiers in Psychiatry
Catherine McCombieUlrike Schmidt

Abstract

Background: Many aspects of the Covid-19 pandemic may make living with or recovery from an eating disorder (ED) particularly challenging. Understanding the processes which underlie the psychological and behavioral responses of people with EDs during this time are key to ensure tailored support in these unprecedented circumstances. Methods: People with lifetime EDs (n = 32) were recruited through social media from May to June 2020 during a period of strict infection control measures in the United Kingdom (i.e., "lockdown," "social distancing"). They completed open-ended questions in an online anonymous questionnaire that invited them to reflect on how various aspects of their lives have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, including ED symptoms and coping strategies. Responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Most respondents reported that their ED worsened or resurfaced. Isolation, low mood, anxiety, lack of structure, disruption to routines, and media/social media messages around weight and exercise seemed to contribute to this. There was a clear sense that individuals struggled with which aspects of psychological distress to prioritize, i.e., mood vs. ED cognitions and behaviors, particularly as attempts to ...Continue Reading

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Citations

May 7, 2021·European Eating Disorders Review : the Journal of the Eating Disorders Association·Katrin E GielKathrin Schag
Jun 12, 2021·Journal of Eating Disorders·Rebecca SpigelTracy K Richmond
Aug 1, 2021·Sleep Medicine·José Francisco López-GilJavier Brazo-Sayavera
Aug 30, 2021·Journal of Eating Disorders·Sara J HansenDavid B Menkes
Oct 5, 2021·Journal of Eating Disorders·Kristen Maunder, Fiona McNicholas

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