Under-Eating (Restriction & Loss of Appetite)

1) What it is

Under-eating occurs when someone consistently eats too little due to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, appetite loss, grief, or fear around food. It can worsen both physical and mental health.

2) What it feels like

• “Food feels impossible.”
• “I feel sick when I’m stressed.”
• “I’m weak and shaky.”

3) Common signs & symptoms

• skipping meals
• nausea or difficulty swallowing when stressed
• weight loss or low energy
• dizziness, headaches, shaking
• irritability and brain fog
• anxiety worsened by low blood sugar

4) Why it happens

• anxiety shutting down appetite
• depression reducing motivation
• trauma affecting digestion
• food fears
• GI symptoms
• overwhelm

5) Triggers

• stress
• busy routines
• emotional distress

6) What helps now

• aim for something small every 3–4 hours
• choose soft, easy foods
• sip calories
• stabilise blood sugar
• remove pressure

7) Daily self-help support

• gentle meal planning
• regular reminders
• compassion over rules

8) Professional treatment options

• GP review
• dietitian support
• eating disorder services if fear-driven
• therapy for anxiety or trauma

9) Medication

Medication may help underlying anxiety or depression, not appetite alone.

10) Practical tips

• nourishment is treatment
• small amounts still count

11) When to seek urgent help

Urgent help if:

• significant weight loss
• fainting or weakness
• inability to eat for prolonged periods

12) Where to get help (UK)

• GP support
• NHS Talking Therapies
• Beat

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