Prioritising prevention: addressing suicidality in eating disorders

Research highlights the distressing reality that eating disorders and suicidality are deeply interconnected, requiring urgent attention in national prevention strategies. This article outlines the key priorities presented in NEDC’s recent submission to the National Suicide Prevention Office. 

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions, with significant health risks, including a higher likelihood of suicide. Individuals experiencing eating disorders - particularly anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are at a far greater risk of suicidal ideation, non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), and suicide attempts than the general population. Studies reveal that adolescents and young adults with eating disorders are twice as likely to experience suicidal thoughts and attempts. The urgent need for a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care that integrates eating disorder treatment with suicide prevention strategies cannot be overstated. 

Recognising the Shared Risk Factors 

Understanding the shared risk factors between eating disorders and suicidality is essential for early intervention. Emotional dysregulation, body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and perfectionism contribute significantly to both conditions. Additionally, marginalised groups including gender-diverse individuals and those experiencing weight stigma face even greater risks. Binge-purge subtypes of eating disorders are particularly associated with high rates of suicidality, suggesting that impulse control difficulties may play a key role in increasing vulnerability. 

The stigma surrounding eating disorders remains a substantial barrier to care, often leading individuals to delay seeking help. This is compounded by gaps in healthcare provider training, where a lack of awareness about the link between eating disorders and suicidality can result in misdiagnosis or inadequate intervention.  

The role of the National Eating Disorders Strategy 2023-2033 

The National Eating Disorders Strategy 2023-2033 provides a roadmap for establishing an effective, accessible, and evidence-based system of care. An important component of this strategy is integrating the whole of system of care – this means that we integrate eating disorder services with suicide prevention efforts, ensuring that individuals receive holistic, trauma-informed care that addresses both their eating disorder and co-occurring mental health challenges. 

In our submission to the National Suicide Prevention Office, NEDC has outlined several priority actions to enhance prevention and treatment outcomes. These include: 

A Call for Action 

Suicide prevention efforts must recognise and address the unique needs of individuals experiencing eating disorders. By implementing a comprehensive, integrated approach, we can reduce preventable deaths and improve recovery outcomes for this vulnerable population. The National Suicide Prevention Strategy presents a vital opportunity to prioritise evidence-based, trauma-informed care that acknowledges the complex and often overlooked link between eating disorders and suicidality. 

NEDC remains committed to working with policymakers, clinicians, and individuals with lived experience to drive systemic change and ensure that eating disorder prevention and treatment are embedded within national suicide prevention efforts. Together, we can break the silence, dismantle stigma, and create a future where no one facing an eating disorder feels alone in their struggle. 

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