Understanding the Relationship between Self Esteem, Loneliness and Emotional Eating Among Young University Students

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to understand the relationship between self esteem, loneliness and emotional eating among young university students. Self-esteem, loneliness, and emotional eating are three interconnected aspects of human psychology that have a significant impact on people’s well-being and actions. Self-esteem is the subjective assessment of one’s worth and talents, which influences how people view themselves and interact with the world around them. It influences attitudes, actions, and general mental health. Loneliness, on the other hand, is a negative emotional state caused by perceived social isolation or a lack of meaningful connections with others. It can have a substantial influence on both mental and physical health, increasing the risk of stress, depression, and other psychological problems. Emotional eating is frequently used as a coping method in reaction to unpleasant feelings like loneliness or poor self-esteem. Individuals may resort to food for consolation or diversion when experiencing emotional turmoil. However, this eating pattern can lead to unhealthy interactions with food and increase feelings of poor self-esteem. Understanding the relationship between self-esteem, loneliness, and emotional eating is critical for designing successful treatments that enhance psychological well-being and good coping skills.