Working in Third World Countries as an Eating Disorder Survivor

Overcoming an eating disorder is an amazing feat. Recovery is absolutely possible, but challenging life situations can also be challenging to our recovery status. Job and relationship stresses, new environments, and moving are all situations where we may be tempted to return to using our disorder as a coping mechanism.

For someone who moves to a Third World country, whether it be for the Peace Corps, a permanent move, or a short mission trip in recovery, all of these stresses may combine.

It’s important to be aware of the changes this may bring, as well as tips for relapse prevention, so you can remain strong in your recovery through these changes.

Eating Disorders in the Developing World

While the World Health Organization touts the importance of mental health care for all individuals, 41 percent have no mental health policy, 25 percent have no legislation on health, and 28 percent have no separate budget for mental health [1].

Eating disorders are also treated differently in the developing world. There is a common misconception that eating disorders are a purely Western issue, but studies are showing that instances of eating disorders are on the rise in Japan, the Middle East, and China [2]. One study found the prevalence of bulimia in non-Western countries to be between .46 and 3.2 percent [2]. Yet, with this prevalence, there often remains limited understanding and awareness of eating disorders.

Be aware that explaining your past and present experiences with an eating disorder may be met with confusion. The concept of eating disorders may be difficult for those in the developing world to empathize with. In these countries, disordered food behaviors are often even more stigmatized than they are in the United States.

In addition to the altered understanding of eating disorders, you will not have the same resources you did in the United States when living in the developing world. Aside from there being fewer mental health clinics and professionals, you may not have consistent internet access or be able to visit the same sites you did at home.

Relapse Prevention Tips Before You Travel

Research relapse prevention and recovery support websites to use if you find yourself triggered abroad. It’s also important to have a more reliable and less technological back-up. For example, bring a physical copy of your favorite relapse prevention book, a journal to process what’s happening, or both.

There may be days where the challenge of living in a foreign environment is overwhelming. On those days, remember your healthy coping mechanisms. Going for a walk, meditating, practicing yoga, and singing don’t require any equipment and can help to ease your stress and restore you.

There are some in the Western world who view eating disorders as frivolous diseases of vanity. Those who are eating disorder survivors know how serious these illnesses really are. Whether living in the United States or in the developing world, issues of mental health and self-worth are universal.

If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to seek support and help in what ways you can. Be open to sharing your eating disorder experience. Understand that this may be a different conversation than you’re used to having, but try to open yourself up to it. You may be surprised what you learn and what you teach others.

About the Author: Margot Rittenhouse is a therapist who is passionate about providing mental health support to all in need and has worked with clients with substance abuse issues, eating disorders, domestic violence victims and offenders, and severely mentally ill youth.

As a freelance writer for Eating Disorder and Addiction Hope and a mentor with MentorConnect, Margot is a passionate eating disorder advocate, committed to de-stigmatizing these illnesses while showing support for those struggling through mentoring, writing, and volunteering. Margot has a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University.

References:

The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.

We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.

Published July 3, 2017.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on June 13, 2017.
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com