The relationship between eating disorders and mental health challenges (like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder) is complicated. Like that age old question, “which came first, the chicken or the egg?” this relationship poses the same question.  
 
For example, in a study published by the Mayo Clinic, researchers found that mental health challenges can increase the likelihood of developing an eating disorder; AND that eating disorders can lead to mental health challenges.¹   In this study, researchers noted that eating disorders often start in teen and young adult years. And, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that 1 in 7 adolescents aged 10-19 experience some form of mental health disorder.² This, combined with the biological and emotional stresses that teens experience, make the relationship between eating disorders and mental health challenges confusing and challenging for the entire family.

But, we can look at our specific family history to identify whether or not mental health issues and/or eating disorders have been present within our family (even if they were not diagnosed). And, we can be aware of any changes in the behaviors or actions of our loved ones. 

So, what can we do to help our loved ones: 

• Learn as much as you can about eating disorders and mental health challenges in young people. 

• Prepare and create a safe space to have an honest conversation with your loved one. 

• Stick to the facts of what you, personally, have noticed and avoid any judgmental comments. 

• Check out helpful information on accredited websites like: 

• • https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/  
  • https://www.nami.org/  (Nat’l. Alliance on Mental Illness) 
  • https://jedfoundation.org/ (Protecting mental health in young adults) 
  • https://anad.org/ (Assoc. Of Anorexia and Associated Disorders) 
  • https://www.theprojectheal.org/  

¹ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eating-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20353603#:~:text=Trauma%2C%20anxiety%2C%20depression%2C%20obsessive,on%20and%20off%20new%20diets  

² https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health