Eating disorders are surrounded by numerous myths, taboos and other misconceptions, and those who battle these disorders often suffer as a result. It can be hard for those who have never struggled with an eating disorder to fully understand what their loved one is experiencing, as well as why their loved one may be triggered by one thing and not another.
Just as each person who struggles with an eating disorder has their own personal story, part of this story are their triggers and what it is that causes them to suffer the way they do.
What are triggers?
In order to understand eating disorder triggers, it’s important to know what triggers are in general.
According to one interview, “Being triggered means that you experience a strong negative emotional reaction in response to a current situation that is disturbing to you in some way. For individuals with a history of trauma or abuse, triggers are often stimuli that bring up involuntary memories of their traumatic past experiences,” says Amy Mezulis, PhD, the co-founder and chief clinical officer of Joon.”
Mental health triggers are specific events, situations or stimuli that can provoke or worsen symptoms of mental health conditions, in this case, eating disorders. These triggers can vary widely from person to person based on their own personal history, but understanding common triggers can be crucial for managing mental health effectively.
What are common eating disorders triggers?
As stated, triggers for eating disorders are unique and personal, but being able to identify the more common ones can help you avoid triggers for yourself, or help you understand what may trigger your loved one.
Psychological triggers
Psychological factors are often at the top of the list for eating disorder triggers. Stress, anxiety and depression are significant contributors, as individuals may resort to disordered eating as a coping mechanism.
For some, the need for control if their world feels out of control can manifest by whether or not they intake food. Perfectionism and low self-esteem can further fan this flame, causing individuals to equate their self-worth with body image. This leads to a striving for an unattainable ideal and potential unhealthy habits as a result.
Biological triggers
Genetics can play a pivotal role in whether or not someone battles an eating disorder and much research indicates that eating disorders run in families, suggesting that it may be hereditary.
Neurobiological factors, such as imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, may also influence eating behaviors and emotions.
Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, pregnancy and menopause, can also influence the development, altering appetite and mood in ways that may trigger or worsen eating disorders.
Sociocultural triggers
In today’s society, the portrayal of unrealistic body standards runs rampant through the media and online culture. Social media platforms, fashion industries and celebrity influencers often idolize thinness, which can significantly impact the way one views their own body.
The pressure to conform to these ideals can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors. Additionally, cultural norms and traditions surrounding food can sometimes trigger disordered eating, especially in environments where thinness is equated with success or where certain foods are labeled as “bad” or “unhealthy.”
Environmental triggers
Environmental factors, including family dynamics and peer relationships, can significantly influence eating behaviors. A history of trauma, abuse or neglect can leave lasting scars which may manifest outwardly in disordered eating as a means of coping. Furthermore, comments or criticisms about weight from family, friends or peers can trigger body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating habits. Even seemingly benign environments like school or workplace settings can contribute to stress and anxiety, acting as potential triggers.
Dieting and food-related triggers
Ironically, dieting itself can be a significant trigger for those with eating disorders. Restrictive diets can lead to feelings of deprivation and obsession with food, which may culminate in binge-eating episodes or a cycle of restriction and overeating.
The “forbidden fruit” effect occurs when individuals label certain foods as off-limits, creating an unhealthy preoccupation with those foods that can spiral into disordered eating behaviors, including orthorexia. Moreover, the pressure to maintain a specific body image or weight can lead individuals to engage in extreme dieting or unhealthy weight-loss practices.
Life transitions and major events
Life transitions, such as moving to a new city, starting college or a new job, or experiencing a breakup can all be significant triggers for eating disorders. These situations often induce stress and uncertainty, prompting individuals to seek control through food-related behaviors.
Additionally, major life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce or other forms of loss, can elicit profound grief and pain which can lead some to use food as a means of comfort or as a way to cope with overwhelming feelings.
Peer influence and social dynamics
The role of peers cannot be overlooked when discussing eating disorder triggers. Teens and young adults are particularly susceptible to peer influence (both online and in person), which can shape their attitudes toward body image and eating behaviors. Friends who engage in dieting, body shaming or negative talk about weight can unintentionally trigger disordered eating.
In group settings, such as sports teams or social circles, competition over body image can intensify, making individuals more likely to adopt unhealthy eating practices in an attempt to fit in or conform.
Cognitive triggers
Cognitive distortions, such as all-or-nothing thinking, can also serve as triggers for eating disorders. Individuals may perceive their eating habits in extreme terms — they may believe that they must either eat perfectly or they will have failed. This black-and-white thinking can lead to significant stress and anxiety surrounding food, prompting disordered eating behaviors in an attempt to regain a sense of control or balance.
Ready to address your triggers?
It’s important to know your triggers so that you can do your best to avoid them, but addressing your triggers is also an important part of recovery. Being able to identify your triggers can help minimize the hold they may have on you and can help you face them head on.
