Medical experts have acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S. has jeopardized physical and mental health for many. Among the behavioral health issues that have risen to alarming levels is eating disorders, especially among youth, with calls to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) helpline up 40% since March 2020.
Eating disorders are not uncommon, though their exact cause is not fully understood. Research suggests a combination of genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors can raise a person’s risk. An estimated 20 million women and 10 million men in the U.S. will have an eating disorder during their lifetime, according to NEDA.
Pandemic disruption increases factors for illness
Increased disordered eating in youths during the pandemic has been fueled by isolation caused by physical distancing and quarantine that has interfered with emotional and social development. Social media platforms can be a way to safely connect with others during times of physical distancing, but such platforms also allow for body comparisons, which can cause low self-esteem, negative body image, cyber-bullying, and an unrealistic standard of what is real.
Eating disorders can affect anyone
Eating disorders can affect people of all ages, racial/ethnic backgrounds, body weights, and genders. Although eating disorders often appear during the teen years or young adulthood, they may also develop during childhood or later in life (40 years and older).
Eating disorders can affect a person’s physical and mental health and, in some cases, can be life-threatening. With treatment, people can recover.
How to identify signs of an eating disorder
The best chance for recovery is early detection and treatment. Someone struggling with an eating disorder doesn’t always fit into a neat checklist. Some potential warning signs include:
Concern with body size and shape
Extreme mood swings
Withdrawal from friends and activities
Uncomfortable eating around others
Food rituals like excessive chewing
Obsessive-compulsive tendencies
Noticeable fluctuations in weight, both up and down
Digestion complaints
Where to find help
If you or a loved one is experiencing signs of an eating disorder you may feel unsure of what to do next. One place to start is the NEDA online screening tool, which can help determine if it’s time to seek professional help. NEDA’s helpline can also help you or your loved one find the help they need, Monday through Friday via online chat, calls, or text.
Regence members can access a spectrum of behavioral health resources
Whether you need occasional emotional support or ongoing mental health care, Regence has a variety of programs to prevent, identify and treat mental health and substance use disorders. Regence members who want to understand what is available under their health plan can sign in to their account on regence.com, or call us for help finding the right behavioral health resources.
If you are interested in learning more about how the team at Capital Benefit Services can help you and your employees contact us by phone at 425-641-8093.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please seek the advice of a qualified medical professional before beginning or ending medical treatment or if you have questions regarding a medical condition.