Research reveals pandemic victims in people with eating disorders

According to a new study from Northumbria University in Newcastle, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a serious negative effect on 9 out of 10 people who have had eating disorders.

About 1.25 million people have an eating disorder in the UK, according to Beat, a UK eating disorder charity. Little is known about the impact to date Pandemic To this population.

It’s clear that the COVID-19 outbreak has a significant impact, World populationResearch conducted by scholars in the Department of Psychology, Northumbria, shows that pandemics pose additional and unique challenges to eating individuals Obstacle..

The research comes after a call from the scientific community to investigate the effects of pandemics on mental health Vulnerable groupIt also includes people who have had eating disorders, such as the elderly and people with serious mental health problems.

In addition to raising awareness of the effects of pandemics among people affected by eating disorders, the results may impact future health service delivery, guidance and policies. The thesis is Journal of eating disorders Online Monday, August 24th.

Investigation of effects on health

During the early stages of the UK pandemic lockdown, Dr. Dawn Blanclibel and Catherine Talbot surveyed individuals across the country who are currently experiencing or recovering from eating disorders.

The result was the disruption of everyday life as a result of the blockade. Avoid crowds Nearly nine (87%) of the participants reported worsening symptoms as a result of the pandemic, which can have a detrimental effect on personal health. Over 30% said their symptoms were much worse.

The findings show adverse effects on psychological health, including decreased control, increased social isolation, increased rumination of disturbed diets, and decreased social support.

After analyzing participant responses, researchers found that personal changes could be negatively impacted: regular routines, living conditions, time spent with friends and family, treatment. Access, involvement in physical activity, food relationships, use of technology.

Important findings

One of the major challenges faced by the survey participants was a reduction in the provision of health services or inconsistent access to health services. Some patients reported being discharged early from the hospital ward, suspending treatment or remaining on the waiting list for treatment, with limited post-diagnosis support.

Due to the decline in service delivery, some participants reported feelings of “burden,” “inconvenience,” and “forgotten” by the government and the NHS.

Beat is a national charity for people with eating disorders who have more than 25 years of experience working with their loved ones and loved ones, increasing contact by 81% across all helpline channels. I will. This includes a 125% increase in social media contact and a 115% increase in online group participation.

“This is a great deal,” said Tom Quinn, Beat’s director of foreign affairs. “We saw first-hand the devastating impact of a pandemic on people suffering from eating disorders, those who are vulnerable to eating disorders and their loved ones. More and more people are calling for helpline services. And we are ready to support those in need at this time.”

Research team warns of consequences of inaccessibility to experts Eating disorder Treatment during a pandemic is severe and can make some people even worse, and in some cases can be fatal.

Media coverage and social media posts were also cited as sources of anxiety as the general public is devoted to food, weight gain and exercise.

While some positive aspects have been identified for the use of technology, research has focused on diet and exercise, which are the main themes throughout social media during the pandemic and its associated lockdowns. Was repeatedly emphasized.

Scholars acknowledge that while positive messages about diet and exercise can be beneficial to the majority of the population, admitting that they can be provocative or disturbing to vulnerable groups is important to healthcare and government. I emphasized that it is important.

Important actions required

The study also outlined recommendations on how these issues can be addressed through further advances in healthcare, research, governance, and policy. Bran Liebel and Talbot explained that this could benefit people who are experiencing eating disorders, and their mental health problems could be more widespread.

Dr. Dawn Blanclibel, Research Associate, said: “Our findings emphasize that the lifespan of the effects of a pandemic should not be underestimated. Individuals with experience of eating disorders may experience long-term effects on symptoms and recovery. It is important that this is recognized by healthcare services now and on an ongoing basis to provide the resources needed to support this vulnerable population.”