The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed various aspects of our lives, from our work environments to our mental and physical health. Among the numerous challenges presented by the pandemic, one of the most insidious has been its impact on eating behaviors, particularly among younger populations such as university students. A groundbreaking study titled “Prevalence of disordered eating and eating disorders among Norwegian university students before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, 2018 and 2022: The SHoT study” has shed light on this critical issue. Conducted by a team of researchers including Jacobsen, Haugan, and Dimitropoulos, the study presents a stark analysis of the state of eating disorders across a two-year span that encapsulates pandemic-induced stress and disruption.
The researchers aimed to investigate the prevalence of disordered eating habits and full-blown eating disorders among university students in Norway. With an emphasis on a comparative analysis of data from 2018 and 2022, the SHoT study observed a diverse cohort that reflects the demographic landscape of Norwegian university students. By utilizing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, the researchers amassed a wealth of data that provides insights into the evolving trends of eating behaviors during and after the pandemic.
One of the key findings revealed that the prevalence of disordered eating behaviors had notably increased in the wake of the pandemic. While the 2018 data showcased a concerning baseline, the 2022 follow-up demonstrated a significant uptick in behaviors linked to anxiety, depression, and increased stress. These findings resonate loudly, highlighting that university students, who are often at a transitional phase in life, faced unprecedented challenges that may have exacerbated their existing vulnerabilities concerning food and body image.
The rise of disordered eating among this demographic is alarming. Many students reported using food as a coping mechanism to manage their emotional turmoil, a behavior that can quickly spiral into unhealthy patterns. Emotional eating, binge eating, and restrictive dieting are just a few manifestations of this growing issue. With lockdowns and remote learning, many students found themselves isolated, leading to heightened feelings of loneliness which, combined with academic pressure, intensified pre-existing mental health struggles.
In addition to emotional impacts, the pandemic significantly altered the social landscape for students. Traditional support systems, such as campus counseling services and peer groups, were disrupted. This lack of access to mental health support likely contributed to the increase in disordered eating behaviors. The shift to online classes also meant that many students experienced a degree of disconnection from their social circles, further isolating those who may have already been struggling with their mental health and relationship with food.
Interestingly, the study identifies specific factors that contributed to the increase in disordered eating. For instance, changes in lifestyle routines—such as reduced physical activity due to lockdowns—altered the way students engaged with both food and exercise. In particular, many students reported a decline in their physical fitness routines, which traditionally served as a means of enhancing mental health and managing stress. The introduction of online classes also led to more sedentary lifestyles, often accompanied by the convenience of snacking or emotional eating, as students found themselves at home for extended periods.
Another significant aspect highlighted within the study is the role of social media as both a catalyst and a detrimental influence on eating behaviors. In a time when in-person connection was limited, social media became a primary means of social interaction for many students. This digital environment often perpetuates unrealistic body standards and promotes diet culture, which can trigger feelings of inadequacy and disordered eating behaviors. The pressure to conform to idealized images can take a serious toll on self-esteem, leading to unhealthy practices as students attempt to achieve these unattainable standards.
Moreover, the pandemic’s repercussions on mental health cannot be overstated. Anxiety, stress, and depression are intertwined with eating disorders; as mental health deteriorates, so too can individuals’ relationships with food. The SHoT study illustrates how the pandemic created a perfect storm that pushed many students closer to engaging in disordered eating behaviors, as they grappled with the heightened uncertainties of academic and personal lives during a tumultuous time.
The researchers believe that the findings of this study necessitate urgent attention from both educational institutions and mental health services. Awareness campaigns that focus on mental health and wellness must be strengthened, with particular attention paid to the unique challenges faced by university students during and after the pandemic. Institutions should consider expanding access to mental health resources and facilitating open conversations about disordered eating and body image issues among students.
Moving forward, there is a pressing need for longitudinal studies that can continue to monitor these trends. Understanding the long-term implications of the pandemic on the mental health and eating behaviors of young adults will be vital for developing effective interventions. The SHoT study serves as a valuable resource in this regard and highlights the importance of continued research and attention to this pressing issue, which shows no signs of abating as the world continues to navigate the aftermath of the pandemic.
In conclusion, the study conducted by Jacobsen and colleagues serves as a wake-up call regarding the state of disordered eating among Norwegian university students. As we strive to understand the impact of external stressors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to recognize the holistic nature of health — one that intertwines mental, physical, and emotional well-being. By fostering supportive environments and addressing the underlying issues that contribute to disordered eating, we can help mitigate the harmful effects observed and work towards a healthier future for students everywhere.
With universities gradually returning to normal and students reintegrating into their social and academic lives, there remains much work to be done in addressing the fallout of the pandemic. Awareness, understanding, and proactive measures must be prioritized to support the well-being of students as they navigate the complexities of this new reality.
It may take time to fully comprehend the long-term effects of COVID-19 on eating behaviors and overall mental health among university students, yet findings such as those encapsulated in the SHoT study point towards learning opportunities. By listening to student experiences and prioritizing mental health support, stakeholders can build a compassionate framework that not only acknowledges the struggles students have faced but also equips them with the resources necessary to thrive going forward.
Subject of Research: Prevalence of disordered eating and eating disorders among Norwegian university students before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Article Title: Prevalence of disordered eating and eating disorders among Norwegian university students before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, 2018 and 2022: The SHoT study.
Article References: Jacobsen, L.M., Haugan, G., Dimitropoulos, G. et al. “Prevalence of disordered eating and eating disorders among Norwegian university students before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, 2018 and 2022: The SHoT study.” J Eat Disord 13, 173 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-025-01370-3
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI:
Keywords: Eating disorders, university students, COVID-19 pandemic, mental health, disordered eating behaviors, SHoT study.
