Learn the Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Depression

The Connection Between Eating Disorders and Depression

The specific connection between eating disorders and depression is still poorly understood. There is a definite correlation between these illnesses; that much is certain. Almost forty percent of those who suffer from an eating issue also experience depression, according to experts.

About 90% of patients hospitalized for eating disorders satisfied the criteria for a mental condition, according to one study. When it comes to mental health issues, depression is by far the most commonly occurring co-occurring disease with eating disorders. There is an increased risk of suicide among those who suffer from both an eating disorder and depression.

Anorexia and Depression

Anorexia nervosa is a potentially fatal eating disorder in which the sufferer excessively restricts food intake in an attempt to create a thin, unhealthily thin appearance. Depression is strongly correlated with anorexia.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 40% of anorexics also suffer from a mood condition like depression. The most extreme cases of weight loss and malnourishment are typically associated with anorexia. Weight loss can lead to physiological changes in the brain that may exacerbate depressive symptoms.

Certain symptoms of depression may be caused by anorexia rather than by depression itself. Alterations in eating behavior, diminished appetite, and fatigue are all signs of depression.

These signs may be attributable to anorexia rather than depression if the person suffers from both conditions. Researchers have observed that the anorexic symptoms experienced by those who also suffer from depression are more severe than those experienced by those who only suffer from anorexia.