The need to self-isolate raises concerns of worsening eating disorders

Written with extracts translated from NHK

June 8 2020

There are concerns that the symptoms of patients with eating disorders may worsen due to factors such as refraining from going out. An online discussion with more than 200 people including patients was held on the 7th, and more than 70% of cases in which overeating increased were reported.

Eating disorders caused by repeated overeating and anorexia tend to cause anxiety and stress, increase the amount of time spent at home, and aggravate the symptoms even when food is nearby.

The online event was held by the Japan Eating Disorders Association, and the results of a survey conducted by approximately 300 persons with eating disorders from April to May were reported.

According to this, 73% said that “overeating increased” and 57% that “increased vomiting or use of laxatives”. In addition, there were noticeable cases of physical and mental disorders such as “insomnia” and “depressed mood”.

In the discussion, “I couldn’t eat out as I expected, and I became terrible at eating and refusing to eat.” Or, “I talked about the symptoms to the people around me and communicated on SNS. I felt lighter. I felt that it was important”.

Fumi Nishizono, the director of the Japan Eating Disorders Association and a professor at the School of Psychology, Meiji Gakuin University, said, “Though people with eating disorders continue to have a difficult situation, like today’s event, people who have the same trouble Please share your thoughts and worries little by little and move forward. If you have any problems, please consult an expert without hesitation.”