Temporal trends in eating disorder and self-harm incidence rates among adolescents and young adults in the UK in the 2 years since onset of the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to higher-than-expected eating disorders and self-harm rates among teenage girls in the UK. Incidences of eating disorders were 42.4% higher for girls aged 13-16 and 32% higher for girls aged 17-19. Self-harm rates were 38.4% higher for girls aged 13-16. In contrast, rates for boys were lower or close to expected. The rise in eating disorders and self-harm among girls, particularly ages 13-16, was more pronounced in less deprived communities. Urgent intervention and timely mental health support are crucial to address these issues.