Psychological distress is a common issue among individuals living with food allergies, but a new study led by Aston University has revealed that there is a lack of available support for these individuals. Anaphylaxis Awareness Week, taking place from 1-7 October 2024, has focused on the emotional impact of allergies, making this research particularly relevant. The study, co-led by Professor Rebecca Knibb, found that two thirds of adults with food allergies and three quarters of adult caregivers experience psychological distress related to food allergy.
The Global Access to Psychological Services (GAPS) for Food Allergy study, conducted by researchers in the UK and US, aimed to explore the psychological needs of individuals with food allergies and parents caring for a child with a food allergy. Over 1,300 adults and nearly 2,000 caregivers from more than 20 countries participated in the online survey. The most common concerns reported by adults with food allergies included anxiety about allergic reactions and living with a food allergy. Caregivers were fearful of trusting others with their child and worried about others not recognizing the seriousness of their child’s allergy.
One of the primary barriers to accessing psychological help identified in the GAPS study was cost. While there were low levels of stigma and worry about seeking support from a mental health professional, the lack of assessment and referral to appropriately trained clinicians was noted as an area in need of attention. The researchers suggest that psychological screening should be available to individuals of all ages, particularly for anxiety and low mood, and should be provided at a low or no cost to ensure widespread access. Additionally, there is a need for informational and educational resources to support individuals living with food allergies.
Professor Knibb emphasized the significant unmet need for psychological support for individuals with food allergies. The study highlighted cost as a major barrier to accessing support in all countries surveyed, pointing to the need for free and easily accessible support options. The researchers are currently developing an online toolkit for adults and caregivers that will help them manage food allergies more effectively. By addressing these issues, they hope to improve access to psychological support for individuals living with food allergies.
In conclusion, the research conducted by Aston University sheds light on the lack of available psychological support for individuals living with food allergies. The GAPS study found high levels of psychological distress among adults with food allergies and caregivers of children with food allergies, with anxiety being a common concern. The findings underscore the need for increased access to psychological screening and support, particularly in terms of cost and availability. By addressing these issues and developing resources to support individuals with food allergies, the researchers aim to improve the overall well-being of this population.