Mental health disorders, including eating disorders, do not discriminate and can (and do) affect men, women, nonbinary individuals, younger children, older adults and adolescents.
But there is one group in particular where eating disorders are more prevalent than any others — according to numerous sources, anyone between the ages of 12 and 25 are at a higher risk of struggling with disordered eating habits and body image concerns.
The prevalence of eating disorders among young adults
According to Harvard Health, “Unfortunately, eating disorders are common. In fact, one in seven men and one in five women experiences an eating disorder by age 40, and in 95% of those cases the disorder begins by age 25.”
One of the main reasons disordered eating habits are so common among young adults and teens is the intense pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty and body image. Adolescents and young adults are at a crucial stage in life where much of their identity formation occurs, and acceptance by peers is often made the top priority. This can manifest in altering one’s physical appearance in order to be accepted.
Plus, media of all kinds, social media influencers and advertising frequently glorify thinness and often equate it with success, attractiveness and health. This constant exposure to idealized (and often photoshopped) images can lead to body dissatisfaction, which is a significant risk factor for developing disordered eating behaviors, particularly among younger generations.
In regards to biological influence, adolescence is a time of significant physical and hormonal shifts. The onset of puberty brings about changes in body composition and weight distribution, which can be distressing for many teens, especially when these changes do not align with the cultural ideals they are exposed to or the environment they are in — for example, those in sports or dance may feel increased stress from these changes. For some, this distress can manifest in unhealthy eating behaviors in an attempt to exert some control over their changing bodies.
Psychologically, adolescents and young adults often experience heightened emotional distress due to academic pressures, social dynamics and big life transitions like leaving high school and moving into college or independent life. These stressors can contribute to the development of disordered eating as a coping mechanism. For some individuals, controlling food intake or engaging in specific eating rituals can provide a false sense of control and relief from anxiety or depression.
Family dynamics and genetics also play a crucial role in the development of disordered eating. A family history of eating disorders, as well as familial attitudes towards food and weight, can influence a young person’s relationship with food. Furthermore, genetic predispositions can make certain individuals more susceptible to developing these behaviors when exposed to triggers in their environment.
What are the most common eating disorders among young people?
In order to be proactive in offering recovery and treatment, it is important to know which eating disorders are more likely to show up in these age groups.
Anorexia nervosa
This disorder is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and having a distorted body image, leading young people to restrict food intake severely. Those with anorexia nervosa often see themselves as overweight, even when they are underweight. This disorder can result in severe malnutrition and a range of health complications, including heart problems, osteoporosis and infertility, not to mention increased anxiety and stress.
Bulimia nervosa
Bulimia involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as vomiting, excessive exercise or the use of laxatives. Teens and young adults with bulimia often feel out of control during binge episodes and may experience feelings of shame or guilt afterward. This disorder can cause electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal issues and dental erosion as a result of repeated vomiting.
Binge eating disorder
This disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often rapidly and to the point of discomfort. Unlike bulimia, binge eating episodes are not followed by purging behaviors. Individuals with binge eating disorder may experience feelings of distress, guilt or embarrassment related to their eating habits. This disorder can lead to obesity and associated health problems like diabetes.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
ARFID involves a lack of interest in eating or avoiding foods based on sensory characteristics, such as texture or smell, leading to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss. Unlike anorexia, ARFID does not involve distress about body shape or size. This disorder can significantly impact growth and development during crucial adolescent years.
Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)
This category includes eating disorders that do not meet the full criteria for the above disorders but still present significant distress and impairment. Examples include atypical anorexia nervosa (anorexia symptoms without low weight) and purging disorder (purging without binge eating).
In need of recovery?
If you are concerned about a young person in your life who may be struggling with an eating disorder, help is available. To learn more about treatment options, reach out to Seeds of Hope anytime by calling 610-897-0508 or fill out an online contact form to get in touch with a counselor today.
