A Study of Eating Disorders and Their Effects on Adult Mental Health

Abstract:

The study surveys 100 adults and their eating behaviors in relation to their feelings. To assist in the development of this survey a participant profile was developed that included demographics, nutrition, physiology, and mental health via the DASS-10, and a description of eating behaviors via the EDE-Q. Participants were mostly females, 22-26 years old, post grad educated, and of middle SES. 78% of participants were of a normal BMI. Biochemical health of participants was poor, and many participants lacked awareness of important health behaviors. Mental health was assessed and indicated that 35% of participants reported moderate distress, and 28% reported severe distress. The survey of eating behavior revealed many participants reported a strong emotional component to eating “including craving consumed in a negative mood, and concern regarding the desire to lose weight, and shape of the body. Extreme self-judgment was reported based on weight. This study concludes that a greater understanding of health behavior is necessary to integrate physical and mental health and address eating disorders.