Eating Disorders Awareness Week: What You Need to Know

With Eating Disorders Awareness Week taking place from 24 February to 2 March 2025, it is crucial to shed light on the prevalence, challenges, and support systems related to eating disorders within our community. This week serves as a reminder that eating disorders can affect individuals across all demographics, and fostering collective awareness and support is vital for recovery.?

Prevalence of Eating Disorders in Singapore?

Recent studies highlight a concerning rise in eating disorders in Singapore. Research published in the Singapore Medical Journal reveals that 7.4% of females aged 12 to 26 are at risk of developing an eating disorder (Singapore Medical Journal, 2022).?

The increasing number of clinical cases and rising concerns over body weight and shape suggest that eating disorders may be more prevalent than previously reported. Estimates from the National Library of Medicine show a 12-month prevalence of 0.7% among females and 0.3% among males.?

Additionally, a study of 797 adults aged 21-77 found that 6.2% screened positive for a clinical eating disorder, with 37% having other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED) and 19.5% at high risk. Alarmingly, only 1.6% of those with a positive screen reported being in treatment (National Library of Medicine, n.d.).?

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health challenges worldwide, and Singapore is no exception. The Singapore General Hospital reported a 15% increase in eating disorder cases in 2020 compared to previous years (The Straits Times, 2021).??

Factors such as heightened stress, anxiety from disrupted routines, and increased isolation have contributed to this surge. Notably, the pandemic has also led to a rise in cases among younger individuals, with hospitals seeing more children and adolescents seeking help for eating disorders.?

Understanding Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders involve disturbances in eating behaviour, body image, and emotional well-being. These conditions can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. In Singapore, increased social media use, academic stress, and cultural expectations contribute to the rising incidence of eating disorders.??

Some of the most common types include:?

• Anorexia Nervosa: Characterised by extreme food restriction, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. Individuals may engage in excessive exercise and avoid eating despite severe health risks.?

• Bulimia Nervosa: Involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging behaviours such as vomiting or excessive use of laxatives. It can lead to severe electrolyte imbalances, affecting heart function.?

• Binge Eating Disorder (BED): Marked by recurrent episodes of uncontrollable overeating, often leading to emotional distress and guilt. Unlike bulimia, BED does not involve purging behaviours.?

• Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED): Encompasses eating disorders that do not meet the full criteria for the above conditions but still cause significant distress and impairment.?

Recognising the Signs?

Early detection is crucial for effective intervention. Common signs include:?

• Physical Symptoms: Significant weight changes, fatigue, dizziness, gastrointestinal issues, and disrupted menstrual cycles.?

• Behavioural Indicators: Preoccupation with food, calories, and body image; avoidance of meals; excessive exercise; and secretive eating habits.?

• Emotional Changes: Increased anxiety or irritability, particularly related to food or body image; withdrawal from social interactions; and depressive moods.?

Accessing Care in Singapore?

Recovery is possible with the right support. In Singapore, several resources are available:?

Medical and Therapeutic Support?

Institutions such as KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) and Singapore General Hospital (SGH) offer specialised treatment programs for eating disorders. These programmes provide medical, nutritional, and psychological support to help individuals on their recovery journey.?

Community Resources?

Several organisations provide additional support for individuals and caregivers:?

• Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH) offers counselling services and support groups for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.?
• Caregivers Alliance Limited (CAL) runs the Caregivers-to-Caregivers (C2C) Training Programme, helping caregivers understand mental health recovery and rehabilitation. Their training includes a dedicated eating disorders programme, equipping caregivers with essential knowledge about eating disorders, the role of nutrition in treatment, and the critical role of caregivers in a loved one’s journey.?
• Resilience Collective (RC) facilitates the Circles of Resilience programme, a peer-led support group where individuals with lived experience of mental health conditions come together to support each other. These sessions offer a safe space to share personal experiences or concerns, and members can suggest topics — such as eating disorders — for group discussions.?

Helplines?

Confidential support is available through various helplines in Singapore, offering assistance for eating and body image concerns (Find A Helpline, n.d.).?

?Fostering a Supportive Environment?

?Creating a nurturing environment is essential for prevention and recovery:?

• Open Communication: Encourage honest discussions about feelings, body image, and self-esteem without judgment.?

• Promote Healthy Relationships with Food: Emphasise balanced nutrition and discourage labelling foods as "good" or "bad."?

• Challenge Societal Norms: Advocate against unrealistic beauty standards and celebrate diverse body types to reduce societal pressures.?

Conclusion?

This Eating Disorders Awareness Week, let us take meaningful steps towards creating a society where individuals feel supported in seeking help without fear of stigma. By increasing awareness, promoting early intervention, and ensuring accessible care, we can build a more compassionate future for those affected by eating disorders!?

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