We are lagging well behind in South Africa with regards to eating disorder awareness. One only has to run a google search to realise that countries such as the USA and the UK are streaks ahead in their approach to working with people who have disordered eating patterns.
Why are we, as South Africans, not talking about eating disorders?
We have limited resources available to sufferers. Are we sticking our heads in the sand?
Is our culture of red meat consumption and beer drinking around the braai (barbeque) over the weekend creating an unrealistic perspective of what constitutes a 'red-blooded' male in this country?
I will acknowledge that female sufferers are slowly beginning to come out of the woodwork and seek support but how long will it be before our males feel comfortable enough to recognise their disordered eating patterns and to seek assistance?
At a theoretical level we know that there are numerous males that are struggling with patterns of eating that are detrimental to their health, but we don't get to see them in private practice.
How do we begin to champion for those young and older men?
How do we reach them?
When will we support those in need?
Males suffering with bulimia, as an example, are on the increase through the world. The stress and strain of daily life is overwhelming. Are we so disconnected from our fellow-man that we refuse to support those nearest and dearest to us and encourage them to get the help that they so desperately need?
Let's get our heads out of the sand, take a good look around and start talking about these issues; a non-judgmental approach is what it takes.
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