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Autism and eating disorders are two conditions that overlap in many ways. While Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that primarily affects social communication, interests and behaviors, eating disorders, (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge eating disorder), involve disordered eating and distorted body image. Despite their differences, these conditions can overlap in many ways that affect diagnosis and treatment for those who have autism and eating disorders. According to Eating Disorders Victoria, “20% [to] 35% of people with anorexia are autistic”. Some key areas of overlap include sensory sensitives, rigid thinking and co-occurring mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety and depression). By exploring the overlap between autism and eating disorders, we gain a better understanding of the unique challenges of autistic individuals with eating disorders and advocate for specialized support and resources.
The Role of Sensory Sensitives
Loren Snow, an autistic public speaker, discusses the causes of eating problems in autistic people
One way in which autism and eating disorders intersect is through sensory sensitivities. Autistic individuals often experience sensory sensitivities, such as aversion to certain tastes, textures or smells, which can affect their eating behavior. These sensory sensitivities can lead to limited food choices and avoidance of certain foods, which can contribute to eating disorders. Also, sensory overload during mealtimes can lead to anxiety, further contributing to eating disorders in autistic people.
The Role of Rigid Thinking
Liv Label Free, an autistic and eating disorder coach, discusses rigid thinking
Another way in which autism and eating disorders intersect is through rigid thinking. In general, autistic people thrive on routines and have difficulty with change, which can impact their eating habits. Rigid thinking regarding food choices and meal times can lead to anxiety if disrupted, potentially contributing to eating disorders. Furthermore, the need for control and perfectionism can manifest in restrictive eating behaviors.
The Role of Co-Occurring Conditions
The Aspie World, an autistic advocate, discusses 5 common co-occurring conditions of autism
Co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can further complicate the experience of eating disorders in autistic individuals. These co-occurring conditions can interact with autism symptoms to exacerbate disordered eating behaviors, in addition to making treatment and recovery more challenging. For example, an autistic individual binge-eats as a way to deal with anxiety and stress. Additionally, depression and low self-esteem contribute to a poor sense of body image and restrictive eating behaviors.
Shedding Light on the Complexities of Autism and Eating Disorders
Personal experiences with eating disorders as an individual can bring to light on the unique challenges that this population faces. For instance, an autistic person with anorexia may struggle with sensory sensitivities that make it difficult to eat certain foods, as well as rigid thinking and routines that contribute to eating behaviors. Moreover, co-occurring conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can further complicate the experience of eating disorders.
Conclusion
The overlap between autism and eating disorders are complex and multifaceted, requiring specialized understanding and support. By recognizing the unique challenges that autistic people with eating disorders face, we can provide more effective treatment and support that addresses their individual needs. Raising awareness and advocating for better resources for this population is vital to improving outcomes and promoting recovery.
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