Understanding stigma in the context of help-seeking for eating disorders

Background: Stigma is a complex construct and its association with help-seeking among those experiencing eating disorders is not well understood. Rates of help-seeking are low for those with eating disorder symptoms and, therefore, determining the role of stigma and shame in this relationship is needed to help inform effective awareness campaigns aimed at improving prognostic outcomes. The current study examined the associations between perceived stigma, self-stigma, shame, and help-seeking behaviour in a community sample of individuals with elevated eating disorder symptoms. Methods: Participants completed an online survey that included measures of stigma and shame as perceived barriers to help-seeking for individuals with eating disorders. Those with elevated eating disorder symptoms and high clinical impairment were included in the study (N = 333). Results: Using binary logistic regression models controlling for age and gender, results showed that perceived stigma, self-stigma, and shame predicted 64% of help-seeking behaviour (p =.005). The only significant unique predictor of formal help-seeking was “Being concerned that other people believe eating disorders are not real illnesses”. No other stigma or shame items were found to significantly predict help-seeking. Conclusions: The present findings suggest that while stigma plays an important role in help-seeking, it might not be the primary reason preventing individuals with eating disorders from accessing care. The field is encouraged to investigate these factors to promote help-seeking effectively.