Alarming increase in cases in young girls
Since the beginning of pandemic, a significant increase in eating disorders between girls under 12 years old has been observed. Dr. Teia Plana, coordinator of the Eating Disorders Unit of the Hospital Clínic, says that this group of patients has doubled, which warns of a worrying tendency in youth mental health.
Triggered factors: social pressure and access to technology
Experts say that the increase in cases of anorexia and bulimia among young girls is closely related to the increasing aesthetic pressure that is exercised through social networks. Dr. Plana emphasizes that the impact of digital platforms and early access to cell phones have contributed to this situation, with children who are exposed to idealized images from an early age.
Disorders detected at earlier age
Until recently, most cases of eating disorders were diagnosed with older adolescents, usually from the age of 14. However, current data reveal that girls of only 10 years old already have signs of these disorders. Reyes Raspall, responsible for a private center in Barcelona, confirms that they have served patients who are beginning to show pathological behaviors since very young people.
Delay in treatment for the youngest
The Association Against Anorexia and Bulimia (ACAP) recognizes that therapy with such young people has more difficulty. Barbara Alcaide, responsible for the Family Care Service, emphasizes that, if they can be intervened in time, these girls have a good prognosis and can return to their normal life. Its age, which often means less emotional baggage, can play in your favor.
The role of social media in mental health
Dr. Plana also emphasizes that it is not only the pandemic that has influenced this trend, but also the impact of social media. The constant presence of content that promotes unhealthy food behaviors can have a negative effect on girls, which can look for information through platforms such as Tiktok, where they are often found with examples of pathological behaviors.
Demand for adaptation in health services
End warns that public health services are not ready to face increased cases, which can lead to a rapid worsening of symptomatology. Lack of resources and time to provide proper care is one of the great challenges that need to be addressed to improve the mental health of young people.
In an increasingly connected world, it is essential for measures to protect the mental health of younger generations in the face of the challenges involved in social networks and access to technology.
