About Mental Health Awareness Month
Each May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month—a national movement dedicated to raising awareness, breaking stigma, and advocating for greater access to mental health care. Established in 1949, this month serves as a vital reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s a time to reflect on the barriers people face in seeking support, especially those from marginalized communities, and to elevate conversations that promote empathy, education, and healing.
At Monte Nido, we use this month to highlight the importance of early intervention, trauma-informed care, and inclusive treatment approaches—particularly in the context of eating disorders, which often go unseen or misunderstood. Mental Health Awareness Month is a call to action: to listen, to advocate, and to create a world where all individuals feel supported in their mental health journey.
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Are Eating Disorders Mental Health Disorders?
Eating disorders are recognized as mental health disorders and should be taken as seriously as any other disorder. They involve complex relationships with food, body image, and self-worth, and are often linked to underlying emotional and psychological struggles. Effective treatment addresses both the behavioral symptoms and the mental health roots of the disorder.
What is a Co-Occurring Disorder?
A co-occurring disorder, also known as a dual diagnosis, refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder or another mental health condition occurring simultaneously. For example, an individual might experience an eating disorder alongside depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or substance misuse. These conditions are often interconnected, with one potentially influencing or intensifying the symptoms of the other.
Co-occurring disorders can complicate diagnosis and treatment, as the symptoms of one condition may mask or mimic those of another. For individuals struggling with eating disorders, co-occurring conditions are particularly common. Research shows high rates of anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, mood disorders, and trauma histories among those with eating disorders.
Effective treatment for co-occurring disorders requires an integrated, comprehensive approach that addresses all conditions at the same time—not just one in isolation. At Monte Nido, our clinical teams are trained to recognize and treat the full spectrum of challenges an individual may face, ensuring that care is both personalized and holistic. This approach supports long-term recovery and improved overall mental health.
Common Co-Occurring Mental Health and Eating Disorders
Anxiety
Anxiety disorders—including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, and panic disorder—are among the most common co-occurring conditions with eating disorders. In fact, research shows that up to two-thirds of individuals with eating disorders also experience an anxiety disorder. Left unaddressed, anxiety can increase rigidity, avoidance behaviors, and overall distress.
PTSD
At Monte Nido, approximately one-third of clients seeking treatment for an eating disorder also meet the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Given the prevalence of this co-occurrence, we have integrated Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)—an evidence-based treatment for PTSD—into all of our residential and partial hospitalization programs. This approach ensures that trauma is addressed alongside the eating disorder, not in isolation. Our published outcomes show that this integrated model leads to significant reductions in both PTSD symptoms and eating disorder behaviors, setting a high standard for comprehensive, trauma-informed care.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety-based condition marked by intrusive thoughts and compulsive, repetitive behaviors. It is estimated to occur in 15–40% of individuals with eating disorders. OCD and eating disorders often share overlapping traits, including ritualistic behaviors, rigid thinking patterns, and a heightened need for control. Additionally, the effects of malnutrition can activate brain pathways associated with OCD-like symptoms, making these behaviors especially common—even in individuals who do not meet full diagnostic criteria for OCD. Exposure-based therapies and distress tolerance skills are key components in addressing both OCD and eating disorders, and are thoughtfully integrated across all levels of care to support long-term recovery.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common co-occurring conditions in individuals with eating disorders, with research showing that up to 70% of those with eating disorders also experience symptoms of major depressive disorder. Depression can increase feelings of hopelessness, low self-worth, and isolation—factors that may contribute to or worsen disordered eating behaviors.
Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) frequently co-occurs with eating disorders, with studies suggesting that up to 25–35% of individuals in eating disorder treatment may also meet criteria for BPD. Both conditions often involve challenges with emotion regulation, impulsivity, and self-image, which can complicate the recovery process if not addressed together. Treating BPD alongside an eating disorder allows for a more integrated approach to healing and helps build the stability needed for sustained recovery.
Stress
Chronic stress is a common and often overlooked contributor to the development and maintenance of eating disorders. Research shows that high stress levels can intensify disordered eating behaviors, such as restriction, bingeing, or purging, as individuals attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions or regain a sense of control. Stress can also impair decision-making, disrupt sleep, and affect appetite regulation—further complicating recovery. Treatment can include stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, and experiential therapies, helping clients develop healthier coping strategies to manage stress without turning to disordered behaviors.
Co-Occurring Eating Disorder Treatment
Our Monte Nido 2024 Outcomes Report found that 85% of our clients have a co-occurring diagnosis of PTSD, mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder. To support lasting recovery, treatment plans at Monte Nido are personalized to address both the eating disorder and any co-occurring mental health conditions, along with how they interact. These plans may include a range of integrated services such as medical care, nutritional programming, and evidence-based therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Experiential therapies, psychodynamic therapy, interpersonal therapy, and specialized mindfulness training may also be incorporated to support emotional expression and self-regulation.
Clients often participate in support group meetings, family education and therapy programs, and guided explorations of personal values, spirituality, and self-understanding to enhance motivation and meaning in recovery. Exercise and movement, when clinically appropriate, are introduced in a mindful and supportive way. Finally, comprehensive discharge planning ensures a smooth transition by including referrals, support system assessments, and aftercare recommendations tailored to each individual’s needs.
How to Support Loved Ones During Mental Health Awareness Month
Supporting a loved one with a dual diagnosis—such as an eating disorder alongside anxiety, depression, or substance use—requires empathy, patience, and informed care. This Mental Health Awareness Month, consider these ways to show meaningful support:
- Listen without judgment. Let them share their experience without trying to “fix” it.
- Educate yourself. Learn about co-occurring disorders to better understand what they may be navigating.
- Encourage professional help. Gently suggest therapy or treatment options, but avoid pressuring them.
- Respect boundaries. Recovery looks different for everyone, and pushing too hard can cause harm.
- Offer consistent support. Simple check-ins, shared meals, or attending appointments (if invited) can make a difference.
Above all, remind them they’re not alone. Your compassion and continued presence can be a powerful part of their healing journey.
Healing Is Possible with the Right Support
Recovery from an eating disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions is not only possible—it’s deeply personal and entirely achievable with the right support. At Monte Nido, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care that honors each individual’s unique journey. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or supporting a loved one, know that you’re not alone. Healing takes time, but with a strong support system and access to professional treatment, lasting recovery is within reach.
If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out. We are here to help.
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