Important warning from the Psychiatric Association of Turkey following the death of Nihal Candan

The Psychiatric Association of Turkey (TPD) has drawn attention to the need for increased public awareness regarding anorexia nervosa and eating disorders following a recent tragic loss. In a statement issued by the association, it was emphasized that eating disorders can be treated with early diagnosis and holistic treatment, but that the disease is often misunderstood, leading to delayed diagnosis.

The statement included the following: “Eating disorders are mental illnesses that can be treated through a holistic treatment process conducted in cooperation with psychiatry and, when necessary, other medical fields, especially when recognized in the early stages. However, because the disease is often perceived as a ‘personal choice’ or a ‘temporary aesthetic concern,’ diagnosis is delayed. We hope that more awareness will be created about eating disorders and that social myths will be replaced by accurate and scientific information. We would like to emphasize that this awareness plays an important role in directing individuals experiencing eating disorders to health services at an early stage.”

In a written statement from the Eating Disorders Working Unit of the Psychiatric Association of Turkey, it was noted that care must be taken regarding patient privacy and misinformation about the disease in the media. It was also reiterated that early diagnosis is of critical importance in the treatment of the disease.

The statement included the following remarks:

“Following a sad and premature loss that has been reflected in the public eye in recent days, many comments, news reports, and posts have emerged regarding eating disorders and especially anorexia nervosa. First and foremost, we wish patience and offer our condolences to the family and loved ones of our citizen who passed away. We would like to remind that in such sensitive times, the language used in the media should show care for both the memory of the person who lost their life and the privacy of individuals struggling with similar difficulties. This statement has been prepared to share accurate information about this disease, which is often misunderstood in society, to prevent stigmatizing attitudes, and to increase awareness about the treatment process."

WHAT IS ANOREXIA NERVOSA?

The statement noted that anorexia nervosa is not limited to weight loss or a desire to diet, but is a life-threatening mental illness if left untreated that causes serious deterioration in a person's body image, eating behaviors, and thoughts about weight. It was emphasized that it is of vital importance to consult a psychiatrist without delay when symptoms of an eating disorder are noticed.

THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MEDIA AND SOCIAL MEDIA

It was pointed out that eating disorders are often wrongly perceived in society as “lack of willpower,” “concern for beauty,” or “a problem that only affects young women.” However, this disease can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and socioeconomic levels. It was stated that media and social media platforms should use a careful language in news and content related to eating disorders, and that sharing personal health information and speculative details can both harm individuals and trigger the disease.

Furthermore, it was stated that the “ideal body” perception frequently encountered on social media and content praising thinness create negative effects, especially on young people, and can contribute to the development of eating disorders. It was reminded that platform providers and content creators bear responsibility in this regard.

It was emphasized that recognizing eating disorders in the early stages and directing individuals to treatment positively affects the course of the disease. It was stated that increasing awareness based on accurate and scientific information in society will enable individuals experiencing eating disorders to reach health services earlier.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Nihal Candan, who had dropped to 23 kilograms due to anorexia nervosa, suffered cardiac arrest for the second time in recent days. Despite all interventions, Candan lost her life.

News Source: 12punto