A study looked at the possible problems that the pandemic restriction and lockdown might have on eating disorder.  The first concern was the increase to eating disorder psychopathology due to limitation and disruptions in individual’s daily routine and activities. The second concern is that the increased use of social media, which might include exposure of harmful eating, unrealistic beauty standards, and stressful world event, will lead to increased eating disorder psychopathology. The final concern is the possible increase in stress and orthorexia-based cognition which will lead to an increased risk of disordered eating behaviors.

COVID-19 restrictions possible effect on eating disorders

Studies have shown that people who engaged in exercise behavior prior to the pandemic have shown an increase in the frequency of exercise. On the other hand, another study in Australia also found a decrease in exercise in populations that didn’t have any exercise behaviors prior to the pandemic. The populations that saw an increase of exercise behavior during the lockdown/pandemic are women and younger people. This could be due to a desire for an improvement In health behaviors, a coping strategy for higher levels of stress brought about by the pandemic, and/or concerns about their appearance.

COVID-19 restrictions impact on exercise behaviors

Due to lockdowns and restrictions that have happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been studies that have shown the significant influence this has had on people’s eating habits, exercise behaviors, and body image.

Pepperdine University

Behaviors an individual performs to maintain or improve their health.

Health Behaviors

Robertson, M., Duffy, F., Newman, E., Bravo, C. P., Ates, H. H., & Sharpe, H. (2021). Exploring changes in body image, eating and exercise during the COVID-19 lockdown: A UK survey. Appetite, 159, 105062.

Exploring changes in body image, eating and exercise during the COVID-19 lockdown: a UK survey.

A type of health behavior that a person performs automatically, or without thinking.

Health Habits

A major focus of health psychology that involves taking measures to reduce risk of illness. Primary prevention involves two strategies:

- Changing problematic health behaviors
- Keeping people from developing problematic health behaviors in the first place

Primary Prevention

Context-driven approach explores the psychological, social and situational context that maintain the behavioral influence of thought and emotion. The way this is done is by cultivating acceptance and mindfulness-based skill that will encourage behavioral regulation.

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