Bridging the Research Gap: The Potential and Limitations of Self-Help Interventions for Eating Disorders on Mental Health. Commentary on Linardon et al. (2025)

Many individuals with eating disorders lack access to evidence-based treatment due to stigma, therapist shortages, and logistical barriers. Digital self-help interventions offer a scalable alternative, delivering structured therapy without direct therapist involvement. While they effectively reduce eating disorder symptoms, their broader mental health benefits remain unclear. Linardon et al. conducted a meta-analysis of 27 randomized controlled trials, reporting modest but meaningful improvements in depression, anxiety, distress, and self-esteem in at-risk or symptomatic samples. However, evidence remains inconclusive for clinical samples. These findings support self-help as a low-cost treatment option, yet key research gaps persist. The mechanisms driving mental health improvements are poorly understood, reliance on waitlist control groups may inflate effect sizes, and study samples lack diversity. Additionally, further research is needed on the use of digital self-help for adolescents and individuals in remote or underserved areas, as well as their effectiveness. Future research should incorporate better control conditions, standardize outcome measures, and explore strategies for implementation in routine care. Addressing these gaps will strengthen the evidence base and enhance the accessibility of self-help interventions for eating disorders.