Drunkorexia is a concerning blend of disordered eating and alcohol misuse and is emerging as a significant issue among young women at university. Characterised by behaviours such as meal skipping, excessive exercise, or purging to compensate for alcohol calories, it is often driven by body image pressures and social drinking culture. Recent Australian research found that over 28% of female university students aged 18–24 engage in these behaviours, which are closely linked to underlying emotional challenges such as low self-control, emotional deprivation, and social isolation. This behaviour is not simply a lifestyle choice, it is often a coping mechanism that puts students at serious risk of alcohol poisoning, eating disorders, and poor mental health. Universities have a vital role to play by promoting body-positive culture, raising awareness of the risks, and encouraging regular physical activity as a healthy outlet.
Citation: Powell‐jones, A. & Simpson, S. Drunkorexia: An investigation of symptomatology and early maladaptive schemas within a female, young adult Australian population. Australian Psychologist, 2020. (link)
