Interview with Yin Ding
This week, I interviewed Yin Ding, a volunteer team leader of eating disorder support at Shanghai Mental Health Center. She appreciated my zine draft and was interested in collaborating with me. In response to my research, I asked her,
“What is different about localised treatment in China compared to Western treatment? “
Answer by Ding:
The development of eating disorder treatment abroad actually predates that of domestic treatment by 20-30 years. As a result, many of the current treatment methods in China are adaptations of international approaches, such as the psychosomatic model from Germany, and methods like Family-Based Treatment (FBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) from the United States. The treatment approaches used in China are largely derived from these international methods.
The main challenge encountered is related to cultural differences. In China, eating disorders are predominantly focused on Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), while clinical cases of Binge-Eating Disorder (BED) are relatively rare. This pattern is influenced by Chinese cultural values that emphasize restraint, self-discipline, idealization, and perfectionism. Such excessive control can lead to the development of behaviors associated with restrictive eating and, even in cases of binge eating, may be accompanied by overwhelming feelings of guilt. Therefore, while treatment methods are similar, the cultural inclination may differ significantly. Additionally, because many treatment approaches originate from abroad, there may be differences in their effectiveness due to variations in family culture. Efforts are being made to find more culturally suitable solutions."
Do you think this zine combined with FBT works?
Answer by Ding:
"I feel that validation through practical application is necessary. Currently, it appears to lack systematicity, and there is a need for clear usage guidelines to complement it.
How can Chinese eating disorders (15-35) establish healthy lifestyles within the family environment via the self-guidebook?
Helping individuals in the age range of 15-35 with eating disorders in China establish healthy lifestyles within the family environment through a self-guidebook can be a constructive approach. Here are some steps to consider:
- Develop a Self-Guidebook:
- Create a comprehensive self-guidebook that covers various aspects of healthy lifestyles, including nutrition, exercise, mental well-being, and stress management. The guidebook should be culturally sensitive and easy to understand.
- Nutrition Education:
- Include information about balanced nutrition, portion control, and the importance of consuming a variety of foods. Explain how proper nutrition supports physical and mental health.
- Meal Planning and Cooking:
- Offer guidance on meal planning and cooking techniques. Encourage readers to involve family members in meal preparation, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility.
- Mindful Eating:
- Teach the principles of mindful eating, focusing on being present during meals, recognizing hunger and fullness cues, and avoiding emotional eating.
- Exercise and Physical Activity:
- Discuss the benefits of regular physical activity and provide suggestions for incorporating exercise into daily routines. Emphasize the importance of choosing activities that individuals enjoy.
- Mental Health and Stress Management:
- Address the significance of mental well-being and managing stress. Techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and seeking social support can be included.
- Family Support:
- Highlight the importance of family support in promoting a healthy lifestyle. Encourage open communication within the family and the understanding of the individual’s needs and challenges.
- Goal Setting:
- Help readers set realistic and achievable goals for adopting healthy habits. Encourage them to track their progress and celebrate their successes.
- Seeking Professional Help:
- Emphasize the importance of seeking professional assistance for individuals with eating disorders. The guidebook should provide information on how to access mental health services in China.
- Cultural Sensitivity:
- Ensure that the self-guidebook takes into account cultural norms and practices in China, as these can have a significant impact on eating habits and lifestyle choices.
- Peer Support:
- Encourage individuals to seek peer support through support groups or online communities. Sharing experiences and advice with others who have faced similar challenges can be empowering.
- Regular Review:
- Suggest regular review and reflection on personal progress. Encourage readers to revisit the self-guidebook and make adjustments to their goals and strategies as needed.
- Family Involvement:
- Promote the active involvement of family members in supporting the individual’s journey toward a healthier lifestyle. This may include participating in meal planning, cooking together, and providing emotional support.
- Professional Feedback:
- Encourage individuals to seek feedback from healthcare professionals or therapists as they progress in their journey towards a healthy lifestyle.
- Accessibility:
- Ensure that the self-guidebook is readily accessible in various formats, including print and digital, to reach a broader audience.
The self-guidebook should serve as a valuable resource to empower individuals and their families in China to make positive changes in their lives and support those dealing with eating disorders in establishing healthier lifestyles. It should be adaptable to the unique needs and preferences of each individual and family.
