Petaling JayaMalaysian Mental Health Organisation vice-president Dr Adnan Omar warned people under stress to watch what they eat.
“When food is used as a way to cope with stress and anxiety, it can become problematic, especially when it involves excessive consumption of junk food,” he said.
Adnan added that unhealthy eating habits are especially prevalent among college students who are under stress due to academic, social and family issues.
“During stressful times, some people may turn to comforting foods and increase or decrease their intake as a coping mechanism.
“This can lead to unhealthy eating habits, which can further increase stress and anxiety.”
Adnan said that while consuming large amounts of chocolate, sweets and other sugary foods can temporarily relieve stress, it often leads to a vicious cycle of emotional overeating and guilt.
“The World Health Organization has highlighted that a 5% weight gain or loss within two weeks may indicate symptoms of depression.
“This highlights the importance of monitoring your eating habits and maintaining a balanced diet, especially during times of increased stress and anxiety.”
Shafik Hanafi, a 24-year-old law student, described how emotional distress led him to overeat as a coping mechanism.
“When my mum passed away in 2022, it felt like my world had fallen apart. I began to turn to food for comfort and before I knew it, I had gained a lot of weight.”
Shafiq said her weight gain had affected her confidence and she now struggles with self-esteem issues.
Sharmila Rajashekar, a 29-year-old financial executive, said she has noticed that her mood and work performance are directly related to the food she eats.
“On days when the food doesn’t live up to expectations, I end up in a bad mood and it affects those around me.”
Adnan said stress often triggers cravings for comforting foods that are high in sugar and fat.
“The greatest cause of stress in life is loss – the death or separation of a loved one, the end of a romantic relationship, declining academic performance, the breakdown of a friendship, etc.”
He says that while comfort foods may provide momentary relief, they can also lead to weight gain and more stress.
“Stress is of particular concern as it can cause negative psychological symptoms such as insomnia or hypersomnia, extreme fatigue and loss of interest in daily activities. It can also lead to impaired concentration, social withdrawal and even suicidal thoughts.”
Adnan, who promotes mental health and offers advice on healthy living, stressed the importance of eating a balanced diet, especially during difficult times.
By following healthy eating guidelines and seeking appropriate support, individuals can better manage stress and maintain their physical and mental health, he added.
