Abstract
Adolescent females and young adult women between the ages of 12 and 25 are at a higher risk of engaging in self-destructive and life-threatening behaviors linked to anxiety, depression, and eating disorders when they do not have access to suitable treatment options or coping mechanisms (Garcia et al., 2020). This study highlights the heightened vulnerability of adolescent females and young adult women aged 12 to 25 who engage in self-destructive behaviors associated with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders when adequate treatment options or coping mechanisms are lacking. Through an autoethnographic approach, the researcher delves into her daily struggles and breakthroughs concerning these mental health issues, alongside her self-care practices, to explore their potential as catalysts for personal and communal change. Analyzing 28 journal entries, 78 photographs, and 21 written materials spanning 33 years of her battle, the study uncovers recurring patterns such as societal pressures, perfectionism, control through food, and existential struggles that originated in youth and evolved through adulthood. The research identifies social-cultural factors, particularly Armenian cultural norms and family dynamics, as pivotal in shaping the researcher's mental health challenges. Despite numerous setbacks in recovery efforts, the study underscores the significance of perseverance and adaptive coping strategies, including structured planning, support groups, therapy, journaling, and mindfulness-based practices. Furthermore, it highlights the detrimental impact of low emotional intelligence and maladaptive coping mechanisms on the researcher's overall well-being and interpersonal relationships. Overall, the study offers a candid portrayal of enduring personal battles with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, shedding light on the complexities of mental health struggles and the importance of resilience in overcoming them.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Autobiography—Mental health; Women—Eating disorders; Teenage girls—Eating disorders; Teenage girls—Mental health; Women—Mental health
Date of Award
2024
School Affiliation
Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Department/Program
Education
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctorate
Faculty Advisor
Andre Harvey
Recommended Citation
Siwajian, Hasmek G., "My secret struggle: starving, purging, and numbing my emotions. An autoethnographic analysis of my lifelong battle with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 1471.
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/etd/1471