Emerging Adults Seeking Treatment for Their Eating Disorder: An Empirical Look at Young Adults Relative to Adults Over 25.

AIM: Emerging adults (EAs), aged 18-25, may have distinct characteristics and, therefore, treatment needs compared to adults over 25 (adults > 25) that are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

This study compares EAs to adults > 25 entering eating disorder (ED) treatment to better characterise their differences.

METHOD: Participants were 623 individuals (332 EAs; 291 adults > 25) with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or related OSFED, referred to outpatient ED treatment from 2004-2020. Using retrospective demographic data, assessment information, and treatment attendance, EAs were compared to adults > 25 on: demographic characteristics, high-risk behaviours, diagnostic profiles, substance use, and treatment engagement. EAs with and without prior ED treatment were compared.

RESULTS

Over half (55%) of EAs report living with family versus 14% of adults > 25. EAs reported more self-harm, ED-related theft, and greater cannabis use than adults > 25. While there were no differences in rates of comorbidity, EAs were less likely to have received treatment for comorbid illnesses. EAs without previous ED treatment were also more likely to disengage from treatment than those with prior treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

EAs and adults > 25 demonstrate similar diagnostic profiles and rates of treatment drop-out. However, EAs may need individualised treatment planning for high-risk behaviours and comorbid illnesses. Recommendations for the care of EAs in adult programs are made.