The terms ‘eating disorders’ and ‘disordered eating’ are often mistakenly used interchangeably (Maguen et al., 2018). However, they refer to distinct concepts within the spectrum of eating-related conditions. Disordered eating involves negative behaviours towards food, irregular eating patterns, and an unhealthy relationship with food, while eating disorders are diagnosable mental health conditions that meet specific clinical criteria and often involve multiple contributing factors. Examples of common eating disorders include bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, which are characterised by restrictive eating, purging behaviours, or compulsive bingeing. Despite not meeting the criteria for a formal diagnosis, disordered eating can still profoundly affect an individual’s life, a fact that is often underestimated (Foster et al., 2024). For instance, disordered eating is linked to a diminished ability to manage stress and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours, particularly in adolescents (Berny et al., 2024).
Although the symptoms of eating disorders may appear more narrowly defined than those of disordered eating, the behaviours and underlying meanings attached to both can vary greatly between individuals. Eating disorders and disordered eating go beyond issues of body image, weight, or shape—they represent deeply complex and often entrenched cycles of behaviour that can serve a variety of psychological or emotional needs (Galler et al., 2024).
For some individuals, this may involve practices such as self-induced vomiting, unbalanced eating patterns (e.g., avoiding entire food groups such as fats or carbohydrates), or the misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas. Among males, behaviours like steroid misuse are also common (Hearne et al., 2024). In adolescent populations, the rising trend of diet pill use, fuelled by social media’s portrayal of unattainable ideals, highlights the pervasive influence of these platforms in shaping unhealthy relationships with food and body image.
It’s crucial to understand that eating disorders and disordered eating do not discriminate by weight, shape, or size. According to Beat (2021), many individuals delay seeking help because of stereotypes that equate eating disorders solely with low body weight. Sensitivity around these issues is vital when supporting individuals. Delving deeper into someone’s behaviour and avoiding assumptions about their appearance can make the difference between offering meaningful support and overlooking a problem.
Disordered eating is not simply about weight or shape; it’s a deeply complex issue that reflects a person’s internal struggles. Behaviours can vary widely, from restricting certain food groups to more extreme practices such as self-induced vomiting, steroid misuse (particularly among males), or compulsive bingeing (Galler et al., 2024). Each person’s experience is unique, making a compassionate, individualised approach essential.
When supporting someone with disordered eating, compassion and understanding are crucial. Approaching the individual with sensitivity, avoiding assumptions, and taking the time to listen without judgment can create a safe space for them to share their struggles. By recognising the complexity of their experiences and validating their feelings, you can help break down the barriers of shame and stigma that often prevent individuals from seeking help.
Recovery is a deeply personal journey, and with the right support, understanding, and care, individuals can begin to rebuild a healthier relationship with food, their body, and themselves.
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References
Beat (2021). Delaying for years, denied for months. [Internet]. Available at: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/uploads/documents/2017/11/delaying-for-years-denied-for-months.pdf [Accessed: 27.05.2024].
Berny, L. M., Mojekwu, F., Nichols, L. M., & Tanner-Smith, E. E. (2024). Investigating the interplay between mental health conditions and social connectedness on suicide risk: findings from a clinical sample of adolescents. Child Psychiatry & Human Development, 1-13.
Foster, L., Lundh, L. G., & Daukantaité, D. (2024). Disordered eating in a 10‐year perspective from adolescence to young adulthood: Stability, change, and body dissatisfaction as a predictor. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology, 65(1), 32-41.
Galler, A., Thönnes, A., Joas, J., Joisten, C., Körner, A., Reinehr, T., ... & APV Initiative. (2024). Clinical characteristics and outcomes of children, adolescents and young adults with overweight or obesity and mental health disorders. International Journal of Obesity, 1-10.
Hearne, E., Atkinson, A., Boardley, I., McVeigh, J., & Van Hout, M. C. (2024). ‘Sustaining masculinity’: a scoping review of anabolic androgenic steroid use by older males. Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy, 31(1), 27-53.
Maguen, S., Hebenstreit, C., Li, Y., Dinh, J. V., Donalson, R., Dalton, S., ... & Masheb, R. (2018). Screen for disordered eating: improving the accuracy of eating disorder screening in primary care. General Hospital Psychiatry, 50, 20-25.
