1. Eating disorders: A hidden phenomenon in outpatient mental health?
- Author
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Fursland, Anthea and Watson, Hunna J.
- Subjects
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DIAGNOSIS of eating disorders , *ANALYSIS of variance , *CHI-squared test , *MENTAL depression , *EATING disorders , *INTERVIEWING , *NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL tests , *RESEARCH methodology , *MENTAL health services , *PSYCHOLOGICAL tests , *QUESTIONNAIRES , *SELF-esteem testing , *ANXIETY disorders , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics - Abstract
ABSTRACT Background Eating disorders are common but underdiagnosed illnesses. Help-seeking for co-occurring issues, such as anxiety and depression, are common. Objectives To identify the prevalence of eating problems, using the SCOFF, and eating disorders when screening positive on the SCOFF (i.e., ≥2), among patients seeking help for anxiety and depression at a community-based mental health service. Method Patients ( N = 260) consecutively referred and assessed for anxiety and depression treatment were administered the SCOFF screening questionnaire and a semi-structured standardized diagnostic interview during routine intake. Results 18.5% (48/260) scored ≥2 on the SCOFF, indicating eating problems. Of these, 41% (19/48) met criteria for an eating disorder. Thus, overall, 7.3% (19/260) of the sample met criteria for a DSM-IV eating disorder. Those scoring ≥2 on the SCOFF were more likely to: be female ( p = 0.001), younger ( p = 0.003), and have a history of self-harm ( p < 0.001). Discussion This study confirms that eating disorders are a hidden phenomenon in general outpatient mental health. By using a standardized diagnostic interview to establish diagnosis rather than self- or staff-report, the study builds on limited previous findings. The naturalistic study setting shows that screening for eating disorders can be easily built into routine intake practice, and successfully identifies treatment need. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2014; 47:422-425) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2014
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