kathimerini.gr
Surge in Anorexia Cases in Greece Linked to COVID-19 Pandemic
A Greek eating disorder unit reports a doubling of anorexia cases since the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily among young women, linking the increase to isolation and extreme dieting behaviors during lockdowns. The unit combines physical and psychological therapies to address this complex disorder.
- What are the common early warning signs of anorexia and bulimia nervosa that often go unnoticed, and how long can these conditions remain undiagnosed?
- The unit, the only public facility of its kind in Greece, has seen a surge in cases since the COVID-19 pandemic, with admissions doubling. This surge is linked to increased isolation, extreme dieting, and obsessive exercise behaviors during lockdowns. The article emphasizes the significant increase in cases, particularly among young women aged 16-22.
- What is the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the number of anorexia nervosa cases in Greece, and what specific behavioral changes are observed among patients?
- A 20-year-old woman, weighing approximately 30 kilograms upon admission, was admitted to a specialized eating disorder unit in Greece. The sight of a meal triggered intense negative emotions, highlighting the psychological distress associated with anorexia nervosa. Her struggle began by restricting food groups and gradually eliminating meals, ultimately consuming only a single fruit.
- What are the long-term consequences of anorexia nervosa on physical and mental health, and how does the treatment at the eating disorder unit in Greece address these challenges?
- The long-term impact on patients extends beyond weight restoration. The unit focuses on emotional healing and addresses the psychological roots of anorexia, including the role of social media. The article shows a need for comprehensive treatment addressing both physical and emotional health, recognizing the pandemic's contribution to the rise of eating disorders.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue from a predominantly empathetic perspective, focusing on the patients' struggles and the unit's efforts to help them. While this is understandable given the context, it might unintentionally downplay the systemic issues contributing to the rise in eating disorders and the limitations of the unit's capacity to address the larger problem.
Language Bias
The language used is generally empathetic and avoids overtly judgmental terms. However, phrases like "nuclear bomb" and "poison" to describe food, used in the direct quote, reflect the distorted perception of the patient. While including these quotes is essential for illustrating the patient's experience, the article could provide context by explicitly stating that these are perceptions shaped by the eating disorder, and not objective truths.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the experiences of individuals within the eating disorder unit, but lacks broader societal context regarding the rise in eating disorders. While the pandemic is mentioned as a contributing factor, a more in-depth exploration of societal pressures, media influence, and other potential causes would provide a more complete picture.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't explicitly present false dichotomies, but the framing of recovery as solely dependent on the unit's intervention might inadvertently downplay the importance of long-term support and community resources.
Gender Bias
The article overwhelmingly focuses on female patients, with only one male patient mentioned. While this reflects the reality of the unit's demographics, the lack of discussion about gendered societal pressures that might disproportionately affect females warrants attention. The article should explore if the unit actively works to support male patients and discuss the gender dynamics of eating disorders more comprehensively.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the significant increase in eating disorders, particularly anorexia and bulimia, among adolescents and young adults. This directly impacts their physical and mental health, leading to severe health complications and even death if left untreated. The article highlights the physical consequences of anorexia, including significant weight loss, osteopenia, reduced muscle mass, and cardiac issues. The mental health consequences are also substantial, with sufferers experiencing distorted body image, anxiety, and depression. The increase in cases linked to the pandemic further emphasizes the negative impact on public health.