Longitudinal Bi-directional Effects of Disordered Eating, Depression and Anxiety
Francis Puccio1, Matthew Fuller-Tyszkiewicz2, George Youssef2
1School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Summary
Disordered eating symptoms can increase anxiety, while depression can worsen eating concerns in adolescents. Early interventions targeting eating and weight concerns may prevent the worsening of these mental health issues.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Disordered eating (DE) symptoms are increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern among adolescents.
- Co-occurring depression and anxiety symptoms are common with DE, suggesting complex interrelationships.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the longitudinal, bi-directional effects between disordered eating symptoms, depression, and anxiety in adolescents.
- To identify specific DE symptom clusters that may predict future depression and anxiety.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study design with 189 adolescents (49.5% male) from Melbourne, Australia.
- Assessment of DE, depressive, and anxiety symptoms at three time points: approximately 15, 16.5, and 18.5 years of age.
- Cross-lagged panel models were employed to analyze bi-directional relationships.
Main Results:
- Disordered eating symptoms, particularly concerns about eating and shape/weight, were identified as significant risk factors for the development of anxiety symptoms.
- Depression symptoms emerged as a predictor of increased eating concerns over time.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest a complex interplay between disordered eating, depression, and anxiety during adolescence.
- Preventative strategies focusing on reducing concerns related to eating and body image may be effective in mitigating the interconnectedness of these conditions.
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