A Scoping Review of Eating Disorder Clinicians' Experiences, Needs, Views and Wellbeing

Eating disorders (ED) are pervasive and severe mental illnesses affecting up to 15% of females and 5% of males internationally with rates sharply rising in recent decades, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, workload pressures on ED services have surged. The impact of this on ED clinicians and their wellbeing has not recently been investigated. This scoping review examines recent literature on ED clinicians' experiences, needs, and wellbeing to identify areas for future research and intervention. The goal is to improve clinician support, quality of life, and patient outcomes.

Following PRISMA guidelines, eight databases and gray literature sources were searched for studies published from 2014 to 2024. Papers were assessed for quality and risk of bias, and mixed-methods data were analyzed using narrative synthesis.

Sixty-three studies, encompassing 3,152 multidisciplinary ED clinicians, were included. Clinicians worked across diverse settings with patients of varied presentations. Analyzes suggest that whilst job satisfaction amongst ED clinicians is high and attitudes are generally positive, workplace demands and stressors have a negative impact on clinician wellbeing. Several areas require clearer guidance and further clinician training. Clinicians' affect is mixed, and an 'emotional rollercoaster' is experienced at work. Many clinicians mention a lack of resources as a frustrating obstacle to an optimally operating service.

Clinicians experience working with ED patients as emotionally challenging and occasionally fatiguing, but attitudes are generally positive. However, clinicians are hindered by organizational factors and a lack of resources, including those pertaining to staffing and training.