Exploring the Link among Eating Problems, Depressive Symptoms, and Help-Seeking Tendencies in Ballet Dancers

Ballet dancers are frequently faced with maladaptive eating behaviors with the intention of retaining a lean body shape, which can cause mental health problems. There are several frequently faced maladaptive eating behaviors in dancers such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and reward-related eating. The subsequent mental health disorders that are prevalent include depression and anxiety disorder. Studies conducted on dancers have indicated a high risk for the development of maladaptive eating behaviors, however research between eating behaviors, mental health, and help-seeking tendencies in dancers remains scarce. The aim of this study was to explore the mediating role of depressive symptoms in the relationship between eating behaviors and the need to seek help within ballet dancers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 98 ballet dancers of varying ages and levels. Structural equation modeling (SEM) analyzed the relationships between eating problems, depressive symptoms, and help-seeking behavior.These results indicate eating problems are positively associated with depressive symptoms ( = 0.68, p < 0.001), which in turn predict a greater need to seek help ( = 0.03, p = 0.009). Mediation analysis revealed a significant indirect effect ( = 0.15, p = 0.018), suggesting that depressive symptoms partially mediate the relationship between eating problems and help-seeking behavior. These findings depict the importance of addressing eating behaviors within mental health interventions for ballet dancers, as this enhances help-seeking behavior. This study depicts the need for incorporating mental health education within preprofessional and professional ballet programs. Future research should explore these relationships in diverse dance populations.