Exploring the Aetiology of Eating Disorders and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Co-occurrence Through Lived Experience

About this study

Research Team

Professor Peter McEvoy; Dr James Clarke; Dr Kate Tonta; Alexandra Nelson; Jasmin Gardner; Michelle Sedgman

Institution

Curtin University

Ethics Approval Number

HRE2025-0480

Funding Source

Curtin University

Project Start Date

15 January 2026

Project End Date

30 April 2026

Participants

We are looking for participants who have either previously experienced or are currently experiencing eating disorder symptoms (e.g., restricted eating, binge eating, purging, and other compensatory behaviours) and PTSD symptoms (e.g., upsetting thoughts, daily life disruptions, and increased stress or tension following a stressful/traumatic event/s). Participants must be adults (18+).

What is Involved

Participation in our study involves taking part in a 20-minute screener. If the individual fits within the aim of the study, a member of the research team will be in contact to organise an interview that will explore their experiences with co-occurring eating disorder and PTSD symptoms, and the factors they perceive to be key in the development and maintenance of both conditions. The interview will take approximately 60-minutes and will take place either online via Teams or on the Curtin University Bentley campus. \r\n

Ethics Approval Number

HRE2025-0480

Location

Bentley, Western Australia

Contact Details

Alexandra Nelson/alexandra.nelson@student.curtin.edu.au/0413673625


We are conducting a study to explore the lived experiences of individuals with co-occurring eating disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. We aim to gain a better understanding of the factors contributing to the development and maintenance of this co-occurrence. We hope the results of this research will allow us to understand the relationships between eating disorders and PTSD, including how and why they may co-occur. \r\n\r\n



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