The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Number of Adolescents/Young Adults Seeking Eating Disorder-Related Care

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the development and worsening of eating disorder (ED) symptoms in adolescents and young adults. In order to examine COVID-19-related trends in ED care-seeking at our institution. Methods: We used interrupted time series regression to examine pre-and postpandemic monthly summary data of the following: (1) ED-related inpatient admissions for medical stabilization; (2) ED-related hospital bed-days; (3) completed outpatient ED assessments; and (4) ED outpatient care-related inquiries at a children's hospital in Boston, MA. Results: Inpatient admissions, hospital bed-days, and outpatient care-related inquiries increased on average over time postpandemic compared to stable volume over time prepandemic (p < .01). Outpatient assessments decreased precipitously initially following COVID-19-related limitations, and rose quickly back to baseline. Conclusion: These results indicate increased need for ED-related care during the pandemic. Bolstering resources to meet the needs of these vulnerable patients is critical as the effects of the pandemic continue to be felt. (c) 2021 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened eating disorder symptoms in adolescents and young adults, leading to increased demand for care. Additionally, outpatient assessments for ED at the children's hospital initially decreased but quickly returned to baseline levels.