Losing a loved one can be one of the most challenging experiences one can face. With that loss, comes a tremendous amount of pain and suffering that can result in physical and emotional consequences, including changes in appetite and eating. An eating disorder may also occur alongside grief, and concerning symptoms deserve assessment rather than an assumption that they will resolve on their own.
It is no surprise that grief and loss can trigger feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, and even anger. These powerful emotions are what make grief so challenging to navigate. These emotions can also trigger significant changes in one's eating habits, which sometimes become concerning or persist.
For some people, grief and eating difficulties become entangled with a wish for stability after a loss. This is a clinical possibility to explore, rather than a single explanation for an eating disorder. During the grieving process, individuals may feel a sense of helplessness and loss of control. They may turn to food as a way of regaining control over their lives, causing physical harm to themselves in the process. Sometimes food or its refusal acquires a symbolic resonance with what has felt lacking in a lost relationship. That meaning must emerge from the person’s own experience rather than be assigned from outside.
Recognizing the warning signs of an eating disorder triggered by grief is essential. This is a highly complex mental health issue that requires careful observation and understanding. But, grief and eating disorder behaviors can be closely linked, as not all coping skills are healthy or adaptive. For example, a common method of coping for grieving individuals is through food, whether that involves binge eating episodes or restricting food intake, and exercise, which may include compulsively working out. And while they may provide some temporary relief from unwanted emotions, like depression or sadness, these coping skills can ultimately lead to many problems. Not to mention depression and eating habit changes, such as emotional eating or even night eating, can complicate your health, leading to disordered eating behaviors.
Some of the common signs of an eating disorder include a sudden change in weight, avoiding social events that involve food, skipping meals, excessive exercise, using substances to suppress appetite, and the development of a negative body image.
Eating disorders occurring alongside grief are dangerous and can result in an array of medical problems. From malnourishment to organ failure, the consequences of this condition can be severe and life-threatening.
Anyone who has experienced a loss and notices concerning eating behaviors should seek an assessment. Care may need to include medical monitoring, nutritional support, and psychotherapy that can make room for the loss and the person’s relationship to food and the body. (National Institute of Mental Health)
Eating disorders can have lasting and permanent impacts on one's physical and emotional health. A proactive approach to recognizing the warning signs, educating others and seeking professional treatment is essential in addressing this issue. As a community, we must work toward recognizing the danger of eating difficulties alongside grief and provide support to those in need.
National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders: What You Need to Know.