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Eating behaviour in mental health care: an underexplored perspective from dietitians and other clinicians
Investigating the interplay between eating behaviours and mental health is crucial for effective patient care. This study explored the insights of mental health professionals regarding how they address eating behaviour in patients facing mental health challenges.
Utilizing an exploratory qualitative framework, the research adhered to The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) standards. Through semi-structured interviews, the researchers engaged with ten professionals from mental health environments, primarily dietitians, to gather their perspectives and experiences. The data were analyzed thematically using a reflexive and inductive approach.
Findings led to the emergence of six overarching themes and three subthemes, which illustrated a wide array of unhealthy eating practices alongside an intricate blend of biopsychosocial factors that influence these behaviors within the realm of mental health. The professionals indicated that their approaches were both dynamic and tailored to specific contexts. Notably, dietitians were highlighted as essential members of the multidisciplinary care team. Participants discussed body weight as a multifaceted issue, yet they advocated for health-oriented narratives and the establishment of health-focused objectives.
In conclusion, this research underscores the multifaceted nature of eating behaviours in mental health settings, emphasizing the importance of considering psychological and environmental elements that shape these eating behavior patterns. It is vital for mental health practitioners to adopt a comprehensive perspective on eating behaviour to ensure safe and effective patient care. [NPID: Behavior, mental health, multidisciplinary]
Year: 2026
