In an increasingly pressurised world, stress has become a near-universal experience. While the physiological and psychological effects of stress are widely recognised, its relationship with eating disorders is complex, significant, and often under-discussed in clinical settings. As healthcare professionals, understanding this connection is vital in identifying at-risk individuals and ensuring timely, effective intervention.
Stress as a risk factor in the development of eating disorders
Research shows that stress can be both a trigger and a maintaining factor in eating disorders. A large-scale study published in BMC Psychiatry (2021) found that individuals reporting high perceived stress were 2.4 times more likely to engage in disordered eating behaviours. The mechanisms are multifaceted – stress can dysregulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, alter appetite hormones such as cortisol and ghrelin, and increase emotional vulnerability, leading individuals to seek control through food-related behaviours.
In a survey by Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity, 86% of people with eating disorders said that stress and anxiety contributed to the development or worsening of their condition. Notably, stress-related life events such as academic pressure, relationship difficulties, or traumatic experiences often coincide with the onset or escalation of symptoms.
The vicious cycle: How eating disorders reinforce stress
Eating disorders don’t just arise from stress – they also perpetuate it. Nutritional deprivation and the physical toll of disordered eating behaviours can exacerbate anxiety, impair cognitive function, and fuel a cycle of low mood, poor coping strategies, and further disordered behaviours. This cyclical relationship can make recovery especially challenging without specialist, multidisciplinary care.
Additionally, the secrecy and isolation often associated with eating disorders can further increase stress levels. Many individuals experience intense shame, guilt, or fear of being judged, which prevents them from seeking help. This isolation intensifies emotional distress, leaving people without healthy outlets for stress, and reinforcing harmful behaviours. Recognising these patterns early in clinical practice is crucial, as early, specialist intervention is strongly associated with improved outcomes and reduced long-term impact on mental and physical health.
The role of multidisciplinary treatment (MDT) at Orri
At Orri, we recognise that eating disorders are never solely about food. They often represent a complex interplay of emotional, psychological, and physiological factors, with stress frequently sitting at the core. That’s why our Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) model is central to our treatment philosophy.
Our specialist team includes:
- Psychotherapists and psychologists who address underlying emotional stressors and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
- Psychiatrists who assess and support mental health needs, including stress-related disorders.
- Dietitians who help restore balanced, sustainable nutrition while supporting clients to rebuild a healthy relationship with food.
- Medical professionals who monitor physical health, ensuring safe, supported recovery.
This integrated approach ensures that every aspect of an individual’s experience — including stress — is addressed, reducing the risk of relapse and supporting long-term, meaningful recovery.
Why timely referral matters
Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness. Early intervention is proven to dramatically improve outcomes, yet NHS waiting lists and service pressures often delay access to care.
By referring to Orri, healthcare professionals can ensure that their patients access expert, compassionate, and multidisciplinary care quickly – whether through in-person treatment in London or nationwide online programmes.
If you’re concerned about a patient whose relationship with food may be impacted by stress, get in touch with our team. We offer fast, collaborative assessments and work closely with referring clinicians throughout treatment.
Together, we can help those affected move towards lasting recovery.
