Examination of the relationship between eating disorder and depression in university students between 18-25 years old

In this study; it is aimed to examine the relationship between eating disorders and depression in undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 25. A survey has been conducted with 95 participants (87.40% female, 12.60% male) studying at universities on the Anatolian side. This questionnaire includes Demographic Information Form, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Statistical analyzes of the findings obtained as a result of the research have been made with the SPSS 22.0 data analysis program. In the results of working; EDE-Q total score and sub-dimensions have been compared with BDI levels, and a statistically significant difference has been found in the "weight anxiety" sub-dimension (p<0.05). EDE-Q and Body Mass Index (BMI) have been compared and statistically significant differences have been found (p<0.05). EDE-Q and dieting status and fear of gaining weight variables have been compared and statistically significant differences have been found (p<0.05). According to the field of education variable, EDE-Q and BDI total scores have been compared, and statistically significant differences have been found only between the "eating anxiety" sub-dimension (p<0.05). As a result of our study, according to the depression levels of individuals who have concerns about weight; it has been determined that the mean score of those with moderate depression (2.61±1.37) is statistically higher than the mean score of those with mild depression (1.74±0.91). When the body mass index is examined, it has been observed that the body mass indexes are higher in individuals with eating disorders. It has been determined that the mean score of weak individuals (1,16±0,53) is statistically lower than the mean score of obese individuals (2,87±1,33). It has been observed that those who have fear of gaining weight and those who are currently on a diet have higher eating disorder scores. Both the social environment in universities and the distance from the family environment cause individuals to eat unhealthy and consume fast food. It is seen that these people gain weight and they pay more attention to their body shape. This situation may pave the way for eating disorders in individuals. There is a need for a study with a larger sample examining the relationship between eating disorders and depression in undergraduate students.