Psychological distress is frequently encountered by individuals with food allergies, but a recent study led by a researcher from Aston University has revealed that support for those facing difficulties is quite limited.
The week of October 1-7, 2024, marks Anaphylaxis Awareness Week, with a focus on the emotional effects of allergies, making this research especially timely.
According to the new study co-directed by Professor Rebecca Knibb from Aston University, two-thirds of adults with food allergies and three-quarters of adult caregivers experience psychological distress linked to food allergies. In both the UK and Canada, less than 10% of individuals were evaluated for psychological conditions during routine food allergy appointments, while only 20% of study participants reported obtaining psychological support related to their food allergies.
This research stems from the Global Access to Psychological Services (GAPS) for Food Allergy study, initiated by a collaborative team of researchers from the UK and the US. The GAPS study investigates the psychological needs of both adults and children with food allergies, along with parents caring for children who have food allergies. A total of 1,329 adults and 1,907 caregivers from more than 20 countries participated in the online survey conducted as part of the GAPS study.
The primary concern expressed by adults with food allergies was the anxiety surrounding potential allergic reactions, followed by general anxiety about managing their food allergies. Other significant worries included avoiding unsafe foods and the impact of food allergies on leading a normal life. Caregivers feared entrusting their child to others and were anxious that others may not fully understand the seriousness of their child’s allergic condition. Feelings of sadness regarding the effects of food allergies on their lives, along with concerns about bullying, were also prevalent among participants. The UK, Australia, and Brazil reported the highest levels of distress within the participant group.
The study identified cost as the main obstacle preventing access to psychological support. It found that there is minimal stigma or apprehension towards seeking help from mental health professionals, indicating that the lack of appropriate screening and referrals to qualified clinicians needs to be addressed.
The researchers advocate for psychological assessments to be accessible at any age, especially focusing on anxiety and depression, and emphasize the necessity for these services to be free or low-cost to promote widespread availability. There is also a pressing need for educational and informational resources.
Professor Knibb stated:
“Our research underscores a crucial unmet demand for psychological assistance for individuals battling food allergies.”
“The costs associated with support present a notable barrier globally, and it’s evident that solutions providing free, easily accessible help are required.”
“We aim to tackle this issue in our GAPS study and are currently in the process of creating an online toolkit designed for adults and caregivers to aid them in managing food allergies.”
