Seeking support for an eating disorder: a qualitative analysis of the university student experience—accessibility of support for students

Abstract

Background: While there is increased concern around mental health problems in universities, the experience of students with eating disorders (EDs) has received less attention. This is problematic as the detrimental consequences of a lack of adequate support are profound. Methods: A qualitative study was adopted to investigate students’ perspectives of the availability, accessibility and suitability of support services. One hundred university students with experience of EDs completed an online survey. A further 18 students completed semi-structured interviews. Descriptive data are reported alongside analysis of qualitative data. Results: Three overarching themes were identified; awareness of support, confidence in asking for help and early experiences with services. Most students were aware of support through their GP and university counselling services. Few identified ED-specific sources of support. Barriers to help-seeking included self-stigma and gaps in service availability. Early experiences with services were often negative, problems included; difficulty accessing services, a lack of ED specific support and continuity of care between home and university. Conclusions: There is substantive progress to be made in ensuring that students with EDs receive the support they need to thrive at university. While it is important that good treatments exist, the pathway to accessing these treatments equally important. As universities increasingly recognise the need for action around student mental health attention must also be directed towards EDs and the provision of specific services.