Drunkorexia - knowledge review

Psychiatr Pol. 2022 Oct 31;56(5):1131-1141. doi: 10.12740/PP/OnlineFirst/134748. Epub 2022 Oct 31.
[Article in English, Polish]

Abstract

Eating disorders are often accompanied by a lack of ability to manage emotions. Drunkorexia is a phenomenon that occurs mainly among a group of students. This disorder is characterized by significant dietary restrictions and excessive physical activity in order to be able to consume more alcohol without fear of weight gain. It is attributed to peers pressure, the popularisation of a slim figure and the desire to increase the state of intoxication. Women are more likely to report experiencing drunkorexia along with other eating disorders. Like any eating disorder, drunkorexia can lead to serious health consequences, but also increases the risk of violence, sexual assault and car accidents. Drunkorexia requires treatment for alcohol dependence and correction of inappropriate eating habits. Drunkorexia is a relatively new term and requires the development of diagnostic criteria and strategies to help people struggling with this disorder. Drunkorexia should be distinguished from alcohol use disorder and other eating disorders. It is necessary to spread knowledge about this type of behaviour, its consequences and education about coping with stress.

Keywords: diet; eating disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alcohol Drinking
  • Alcoholism*
  • Feeding Behavior / psychology
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Students / psychology
  • Universities