How Can ADHD Lead to ARFID (or Other Eating Disorders) Over Time? Advice on Diagnosis?

[ale_inmelb]

Hi everyone,

I’ve been looking into the relationship between ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and eating disorders, especially ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), and I’m hoping to understand this connection better. Specifically, I’m curious about how ADHD might contribute to the development of ARFID—or even other types of eating disorders—over time.

• What factors (like sensory sensitivities, anxiety, emotional regulation issues, or executive dysfunction) might cause someone with ADHD to develop ARFID or other eating difficulties?

• For those with personal experience, did symptoms appear gradually, or were they linked to specific life stages or events?

• Are there particular risks for different types of eating disorders (e.g., overeating, undereating, bulimia, anorexia) in people with ADHD?

I’m also wondering about the best path to get a proper diagnosis. Would this typically be done through a psychologist, psychiatrist, or an eating disorder specialist? Any tips on starting the process, especially when ADHD has already been diagnosed (y ADHD has been diagnosed 6 years ago), would be greatly appreciated. 

Thanks so much in advance for sharing your experiences, insights, or trusted resources on this topic!

[tyme]

Hey @ale_inmelb ,

Sounds like there's a lot going on for you at the moment. 

Is this the first time you have sought help for your mental health concerns?

[ale_inmelb]

Professionally, no. I have done it back in my country of origin before. However, it didnt work out for me.

I have been diagnosed with ADHD for quite a long time now, and I have also been struggling with eating disorders (not sure which one). I am looking for a professional psychologist for long-term during my stay here.

[tyme]

Fair call @ale_inmelb .

Just a note though, if you are an international student, the costs might absolutely sky rocket. Would cost be an issue for you?

[Bow]

I had to see a psychiatrist to my eating disorder officially diagnosed @ale_inmelb and was fortunate enough to get in to see a psychiatrist who specialised in EDs who also bulk billed me. 

I don’t know too much about the link between adhd and arfid, but there do seem to be a lot of people around (on social media that I see) that have both. Also folks with autism. 
my 9yr old daughter does not have any diagnosis, but she most definitely has some autism and arfid traits. 

[ale_inmelb]

Cost would surely be an issue. I was wondering if my OSHC would cover for it too?

[ale_inmelb]

@Bow

I feel like I have been struggling with eating disorder (either ARFID or Anorexia) for quite a long time now, but I am very unsure since I have never been to a psychiatrist or any professional about this as it is super expensive for me as an international student; however, I really want to get it looked at asap.

[tyme]

Even those living here have to pay a few hundred dollars per appointment so I hope your insurance covers it. Are you able to phone them to ask @ale_inmelb ?

[ale_inmelb]

@tyme

Phone the insurance company? If that's the case then I have not yet checked in with them, and hopefully will do so soon.

[ale_inmelb]

I've been doing research about it and most page said yes, OSHC will cover the cost for psychologist. If that's the case I might look for suggestion on good therapist in Melbourne