“It is the only constant in what feels like a completely upside down and scary world”: Living with an eating disorder during COVID-19 and the importance of perceived control for recovery and relapse

• DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105596
• Publication Date: 2021-07-09T15:34:41Z
• Authors: Dawn Branley-Bell; Catherine V. Talbot
• Keywords: Constant (computer programming); 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound, negative impact on the lives and wellbeing of much population, it can raise additional challenges for individuals with eating disorders (EDs). During early stages UK lockdown, reported disruptions to many aspects their lives, including reduced feelings control serious concerns over ED symptoms and/or recovery. This study applied mixed methods online survey collect responses from 58 (age 16–65yrs) lived experience EDs. Data was collected across two time points (April 2020 June 2020) explore ongoing impacts this population. results suggest that higher perceptions general, external may be associated Quantitative show who recovering since first point, also significant increases in perceived (compared relapsed or whose status unchanged). Thematic analysis generated themes: behaviours as an 'auxiliary mechanism', loss auxiliary after lockdown. Individuals experienced less tendency rely upon disorder coping mechanism, i.e., diminished directed inwards replaced controlling own behaviour. preliminary factor EDs at risk detrimental recovery because reducing peoples' sense control. These findings highlight need further research area, investigation around potential interventions based strengthening promote