In a recent interview, Dietitian Muhammad Azif Azizi Md Noh from Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz raised concerns over the growing cases of anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorders, particularly among young girls. While obesity often dominates conversations, conditions like anorexia and bulimia are frequently overlooked.

There is a dangerous misconception that these disorders are lifestyle choices and, by comparison, "better" than obesity. In reality, eating disorders are life-threatening mental illnesses that deserve the same serious attention as any other health condition. Recognised as mental health conditions since the 1980s, eating disorders have been included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

We must take a firm stance and recognise the factors that contribute to the negative cycle of eating disorders. A person may develop an eating disorder due to a combination of influences, such as societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, personal struggles with body image, and the effects of traumatic experiences, such as bullying and abuse.

Social media and celebrity culture often amplify these pressures, promoting a narrow, unattainable ideal that can lead to unhealthy dieting behaviours. Dr Muhammad Azif explained that many patients with eating disorders arrive at hospitals severely malnourished, having attempted to replicate the slim, idealised bodies they see on social media, without realising that these images are often heavily manipulated. All of these factors can erode self-esteem, making it easier for eating disorders to take root.

Eating disorders are serious and often life-threatening conditions that involve severe disruptions in eating habits, as well as unhealthy thoughts and emotions related to food, body weight, and shape. A person may become overly focused on these issues, which can lead to dangerous behaviours like starvation. It’s a no-brainer that this can cause the body to shut down. However, many individuals with eating disorders struggle to silence the "voice" in their head that encourages these harmful behaviours, making it difficult to overcome even when logic and common sense suggest otherwise.

Recognising the early signs of an eating disorder is crucial to preventing it from worsening. Key warning signs include drastic changes in eating habits, an unhealthy preoccupation with weight or body image, and social withdrawal. Excusing oneself to spend long periods in the bathroom may also indicate bulimia, particularly if it's related to vomiting after eating. Addressing these behaviours with empathy and care is essential in preventing the disorder from escalating.

This is why education is crucial in addressing eating disorders, particularly among young people. Teachers and school staff play a key role in identifying the signs of eating disorders early, as these conditions are most commonly seen during adolescence and university years. Given that individuals struggling with eating disorders often spend significant time with educators and peers, early intervention by these figures can help prevent the issue from escalating.

Eating disorders can also be triggered by negative comments from family and friends, peer pressure, or unrealistic body image expectations. We must stop casually using words like "chubby", "thick", and "fat" without thinking about their impact. It starts with us, as a community, to create a more supportive and compassionate environment.

Recovery is equally important to address, alongside professional help and psychoeducation. Recovering from an eating disorder is not about achieving "perfection"; it’s about focusing on progress, no matter how slow it may seem. Creating a supportive environment that promotes empathy and understanding is crucial. Recognising the impact of external factors and offering encouragement and compassion can make a significant difference in a person’s recovery journey.

In Malaysia, where family gatherings are central to our culture, the holiday season can trigger or worsen eating disorders. Family events often bring up emotional struggles, making recovery more challenging, as the festive period highlights food, body image, and social expectations. For those already struggling, this can increase feelings of distress.

Managing holiday gatherings requires sensitivity. Conversations focusing on food, weight, or appearance can be harmful, especially for someone in recovery. It’s important to gently steer discussions away from these topics and validate the emotions of those recovering. Respecting personal boundaries is the right step forward as individuals may need space during meals or social events, and this should be respected without taking it personally. The focus should always be on emotional care, creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment for those in recovery.

Get Help and Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to reach out for help. We encourage individuals seeking support to contact the relevant hotlines, including Talian HEAL at 15555, the MIASA Crisis Helpline at 1-800-18-0066, and the Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA) at 03-2780 6803.

Additionally, individuals can reach out directly to us at Legal Advisory & Women’s Aid Centre (LAWA) by calling 03-2716 5943, 012-386 3884, or via email at lawa@mca.org.my. We are here to provide support and assistance.

Datuk Dr Pamela Yong
MCA Deputy Secretary General
Wanita MCA Sabah Chairperson

5 November 2024

-MCA Comm-