Former Somerset cricketer Arul Suppiah has spoken out about his struggles with anorexia nervosa, a condition that has left him feeling like he is "losing himself" and struggling to cope with everyday life.
Early Symptoms and Impact
Suppiah, 41, began experiencing symptoms of the eating disorder in 2017 after adopting a healthier lifestyle. Key points include:
- Rapid weight loss
- Fatigue and irritability due to malnutrition
- Excessive exercise
- Avoidance of social situations involving food
In March this year, Suppiah collapsed at school while teaching due to severe dehydration caused by starvation. He was advised to take time off work for treatment, but his situation worsened as he grappled with feelings of guilt for not being able to support others.
Mental Health Background
Suppiah’s mental health issues have roots in his childhood:
- He suffered from depression following the death of his mother at age seven.
- He later developed obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), leading to fixations on rituals such as counting steps or tapping hands before sleep.
Research indicates that individuals with anorexia nervosa are more likely to experience other psychiatric conditions, such as OCD or depression. According to studies published in The International Journal of Eating Disorders, up to 44% of people diagnosed with anorexia may also suffer from OCD.
Career Highlights
As a professional cricketer, Suppiah made over 200 appearances for Somerset County Cricket Club alongside notable players. His career included:
- Playing with international stars like Marcus Trescothick and Alastair Cook.
- Contributing to the team’s success over many years.
The Need for Awareness
An eating disorder is classified as a serious mental illness by the National Health Service (NHS). According to data from Public Health England (PHE), it affects approximately one million adults across England each year. Suppiah’s story underscores the need for greater awareness and understanding of eating disorders among athletes.
"I am not alone," said Suppiah’s wife, Sarah. "There are so many people out there who are suffering in silence because they don’t know how or where to seek help."
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