Youth Eating Disorders in Türkiye: Pre- and Post-COVID Insights

In recent years, the global pandemic has brought unprecedented changes to our lives, and mental health has emerged as a significant concern. Among the various mental health issues, eating disorders have garnered attention, particularly among youth. A recent study conducted in Türkiye, titled “Presentations of eating disorders among youth in Türkiye before and after COVID-19: lessons learned for the future,” delves into this pressing issue by examining the alarming rise in eating disorders during and after the pandemic.

The researchers, led by renowned scholars H. Öğütlü, Ö.P. Gözükara, and A. Genç, provide critical insights into the landscape of eating disorders among young people in Türkiye. Their work sheds light on how the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the presentation and perception of these disorders. The study highlights that the crisis has significantly exacerbated pre-existing vulnerabilities, leading to an alarming increase in cases of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder among adolescents and young adults.

This research is notable not only for its scope but also for its methodical approach. It employs a comprehensive analysis of data collected from various health institutions across Türkiye, focusing on the demographics most affected by these disorders. The findings indicate a pronounced increase in eating disorders since the onset of the pandemic, with notable shifts in the age of onset and severity of symptoms. The study attributes these changes to a combination of factors, including social isolation, altered daily routines, and increased exposure to triggering content on social media.

The impact of social media cannot be overstated in this context. The researchers found that the pandemic further intensified the obsession with body image among young people, exacerbated by the prevalence of dieting culture and idealized representations of beauty on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. These platforms have often glorified thinness, leading to increased body dissatisfaction among adolescents. The study shows a concerning correlation between time spent on social media and the emergence of eating disorders, warranting closer scrutiny of the content consumed by youth during lockdowns.

In exploring the psychological implications of the pandemic, the study reveals that many young people reported feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation—factors that contribute significantly to the development of eating disorders. With schools closed and social interactions limited, many youths turned to food as a coping mechanism, which paradoxically led to a greater prevalence of disordered eating behaviors. These findings underline the need for integrated mental health support systems in educational settings, particularly in turbulent times.

Equally concerning is the insufficient response from the healthcare system in addressing the rising tide of eating disorders. Many individuals suffering from these complications found it challenging to access appropriate care during the pandemic, as mental health services were often deprioritized in favor of managing COVID-19 cases. This gap in care poses a significant risk of long-term consequences for young patients who may require ongoing treatment and support.

On a societal level, the study calls for increased awareness and destigmatization of eating disorders. It emphasizes that education on mental health should be prioritized in schools and communities to prevent further escalations. By fostering open dialogues about body image and self-worth, societies can create environments that support positive mental health and resilience among youth.

Furthermore, the research draws attention to the importance of prevention strategies that involve parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. It advocates for collaborative approaches that encourage healthy coping mechanisms and body positivity. Workshops, seminars, and support groups may play a pivotal role in equipping young people with the necessary tools to navigate their mental health more effectively.

The lessons learned from this study also extend to the potential long-term impacts of COVID-19 on mental health trajectories. As the world begins to recover from the pandemic, it is imperative to recognize the enduring effects on young people’s mental well-being. Continued research and monitoring will be crucial to understand the evolving landscape of eating disorders in a post-pandemic world.

In conclusion, the findings of Öğütlü and colleagues serve as a clarion call for heightened attention to eating disorders among youth, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. As we reflect on the impacts of COVID-19, it is essential to emerge from this crisis with a renewed commitment to mental health advocacy and support. Future research should aim to better understand the underlying mechanisms at play, ensuring that we can effectively respond to this urgent public health issue before it escalates further.

By drawing on evidenced-based insights, the work not only illuminates the present challenges but also lays the groundwork for future strategies that can mitigate the risks associated with eating disorders in young populations. Emphasizing the need for comprehensive mental health resources and educational initiatives, our response to the pandemic’s fallout must be robust and multifaceted, addressing both the immediate and the long-term needs of those affected.

Öğütlü, H., Gözükara, Ö.P., Genç, A. et al. Presentations of eating disorders among youth in Türkiye before and after COVID-19: lessons learned for the future.
J Eat Disord (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-025-01475-9