StudentBodies-eating disorders: A randomized controlled trial of a coached online intervention for subclinical eating disorders

ObjectiveEating disorders and subclinical eating disorders are serious and disabling diseases with high prevalence rates on college campuses. Many symptomatic students are never screened nor formally diagnosed with an eating disorder and do not receive mental health treatment.MethodThis pilot study examines the feasibility, acceptability, and short-term efficacy of a 10-week online intervention, StudentBodies-Eating Disorders, designed to reduce eating disorder symptoms, related psychopathology, and weight and shape concerns. A total of 65 participants were randomized to the online intervention or waitlist control.ResultsResults indicate that for study completers, the intervention had large effects for reduction of eating-related psychopathology (d = 1.5), weight concerns (d = .7), and psychosocial impairment (d = .7). Those who completed it rated the program very acceptable. This pilot study suggests the potential efficacy of StudentBodies-Eating Disorders as a self-help intervention for subclinical eating disorders in a non-clinical setting.