ANASA participated in the 6th Panhellenic Conference on Clinical Psychology and Health Psychology of the Hellenic Psychological Society (ELPSE), held in Athens from October 29 to November 1, 2026, presenting a scientific study exploring the relationship between Eating Disorders (EDs) in children and adolescents and the presence of a chronic autoimmune disease in a parent.

The study, entitled “The Association Between Eating Disorders in Children and Adolescents and Parental Autoimmune Disease,” was presented by two psychologists from the ANASA Day Centre:

• Anna Fountzoula, Psychologist, MSc, Systemic Therapist
• Eftychia Psyllou, Psychologist, MSc, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

The scientific session was chaired by Diana Charila, Psychologist, Professor at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, and Trainer at the Institute for Research and Behaviour Therapy.

Understanding Parental Illness Within the Family and Emotional Context

The presentation focused on an area that remains relatively underexplored in international scientific literature: how the experience of a parent’s chronic autoimmune disease may be associated with the way children and adolescents relate to their bodies, food, care, and control.

Drawing on international research and two clinical cases involving adolescents with anorexia nervosa, the study highlighted the importance of understanding parental illness within the broader family and emotional environment.

The presence of a chronic illness in a parent was not presented as a cause of Eating Disorders, but rather as a circumstance that may influence family relationships, roles, and the emotional experiences of family members.

Particular emphasis was placed on:

• The physical and emotional vulnerability that family members may experience.
• Changes in family roles and caregiving relationships.
• The need for control, which may be expressed through eating disorder symptoms.
• The importance of exploring the personal meaning that parental illness holds for children and adolescents.

The Importance of a Holistic Therapeutic Approach

Eating Disorders are complex mental health conditions involving an interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their development and maintenance.

The study highlighted the importance of a therapeutic approach that goes beyond identifying and addressing symptoms, seeking to understand the broader context in which they emerge.

Exploring family relationships, emotional needs, and experiences associated with chronic illness may contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by children and adolescents living with Eating Disorders.

ANASA’s Commitment to Scientific Research and Knowledge

ANASA’s participation in the conference reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, sharing clinical experience, and raising awareness of the complexity of Eating Disorders.

Through the work of its Day Centre, ANASA continues to advocate for specialised, multidisciplinary, and individualised therapeutic care that respects the unique needs of each individual and their family environment.

Because behind every Eating Disorder lies a unique human experience that deserves to be heard, understood, and approached with scientific expertise, compassion, and care.