Anorexia nervosa and depressive disorders often occur together. The exact reasons for this are unknown. However, the co-occurrence can intensify symptoms and lower outlook.

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that is characterized by the restriction of nutritional intake. Depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common yet serious mood disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and handles daily activities.

This article discusses the connection between anorexia and depression. It also goes over how a person can tell the difference between the two conditions as well as treatment options.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

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Anyone can develop anorexia. However, it is typically more common among females. The lifetime prevalence of anorexia in the United States is 0.3 to 1%. The onset of this condition is generally between adolescence and early adulthood.

Various research has shown that anorexia often co-occurs with other mental health conditions. Most commonly, these conditions are anxiety disorders or depressive disorders. The co-occurrence of these conditions has been associated with more severe symptoms of anorexia and a less optimistic outlook for those with the conditions, especially young females.

According to research from 2020, females who have a history of depression or anxiety disorders were more than four times more likely to also have a lifetime history of an eating disorder. This study also showed that among the participants with MDD or anxiety disorder, 13% met the criteria for a lifetime eating disorder and 39% admitted to at least one disordered eating behavior, such as binge eating.

It is not entirely clear if having anorexia more often leads to the development of depression or if having depression more often leads to developing anorexia. It is possible that this depends on the individual and their situation.

Overlapping symptoms of anorexia and depression

There are certain symptoms that are associated with both anorexia and depression. This overlap can sometimes make it difficult to determine if an individual is experiencing one condition or both.

Overlapping symptoms include:

  • changes in appetite
  • feelings of sadness
  • difficulty remembering things
  • difficulty concentrating
  • digestive issues
  • feeling tired or fatigued

Since anorexia and depression share some similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell them apart. However, there are other symptoms specific to each condition that can help a person understand which one they may be experiencing.

If an individual is experiencing any symptoms of anorexia or depression, it is important that they speak with a healthcare or mental health professional.

Anorexia symptoms

Behavioral changes that may occur due to anorexia include:

  • eating very little or not eating at all
  • talking about food or weight persistently
  • refusing to eat in front of other people
  • refusing to go out with friends or loved ones
  • making oneself throw up
  • exercising excessively
  • taking laxatives or diet pills regularly

Other symptoms of anorexia may include:

  • moodiness and sadness
  • slow or confused thinking
  • memory issues
  • thin, brittle nails and hair
  • feeling weak, dizzy, or faint
  • always feeling cold due to a drop in internal body temperature
  • feeling sluggish or tired
  • menstrual cycles (periods) stopping or becoming irregular
  • skin that is dry, blotchy, or yellow
  • swollen joints or weak muscles
  • severe bloating or constipation

Depression symptoms

Symptoms of depression usually interfere with a person’s day-to-day functioning. They also tend to cause significant distress to the individual.

Depression symptoms may vary from person to person but can include:

  • sad, anxious, or “empty” mood that is persistent
  • feelings of irritability, restlessness, or frustration
  • feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, or guilt
  • lack of energy, feeling slowed down, or fatigue
  • loss of interest in hobbies and activities
  • difficulty making decisions, remembering things, or concentrating
  • sleep issues, including waking too early, oversleeping, or difficulty sleeping
  • unplanned weight changes or changes in appetite
  • physical aches or pains and digestive issues
  • thoughts of death or suicide

Suicide prevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:

  • Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
  • Listen to the person without judgment.
  • Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
  • Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
  • Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects if it’s safe to do so.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Find more links and local resources.

Individuals who develop depression along with anorexia typically show signs of more severe symptoms, a higher disease burden, and a less optimistic outlook.

Some studies have shown that depression co-occurring with anorexia can lead to greater aggravation of a person’s ability to think. This may be due in part to both conditions leading to cognitive complications.

Research has not shown that depression has any direct effect on the effectiveness of anorexia treatment. However, the co-occurrence of the two conditions can make the eating disorder more severe than in those without depression.

Both anorexia and depression are treatable conditions. These treatments can help manage symptoms, as well as help an individual recover from the condition.

Treatment options for anorexia include:

  • psychotherapy
  • measures to ensure the individual consumes enough nutrients and calories, which may involve hospitalization
  • family therapy for adolescents
  • regular check-ups with a healthcare professional

Read more about treatment for anorexia.

Treatment options for depression include:

Help is available

Eating disorders can severely affect the quality of life of people living with these conditions and those close to them. Early intervention and treatment greatly improve the likelihood of recovery.

Anyone who suspects they or a loved one may have an eating disorder can contact the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, which offers a daytime helpline staffed by licensed therapists and an online search tool for treatment options.

For general mental health support at any time, people can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 24 hours a day at 1-800-662-4357 (or 1-800-487-4889 for TTY).

Many other resources are also available, including:

Can depression make you not eat?

Depression can lead to a change in appetite, which may include a lack of appetite.

Who is at a higher risk of anorexia?

Anorexia is more common in females than in males. The typical onset is between adolescence and early adulthood.

Mental health resources

Visit our dedicated hub for more research-backed information and resources on mental health and well-being.

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that is more common among younger females. Depression is a mood disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and handles daily activities.

These two conditions often co-occur. Individuals who experience depression along with anorexia may have more severe symptoms, a higher disease burden, and a lower outlook.

Treatment is available for both anorexia and depression. If an individual is experiencing any symptoms, speaking with a healthcare or mental health professional is important.