Last Updated on July 30, 2024 | Published: April 11, 2024 published by Jenny Tomei
What is ASD (Autism)?
Let’s start with an overview of autism. Autism, often known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurological illness that affects how people perceive and interact with their surroundings. It is commonly referred to as a spectrum disorder since it manifests differently in each individual. Some people may succeed in one area while struggling in another, such as social relations, sensory sensitivity, and communication.
What is the relationship between autism, food, and eating?
Autism may have a substantial impact on food and eating. Because of their sensory sensitivities, habits, and social issues, many autistic people have unusual connections with food. These variables can have an impact on their eating patterns and perhaps lead to eating disorders.
How frequently do anorexia and autism coexist?
Estimates vary, but most experts believe that around 20% of persons with anorexia are autistic. Both disorders are uncommon — around 1% of individuals are autistic, while 0.3 % have anorexia — and most research has focused on the prevalence of autism in individuals with anorexia, rather than the reverse. (Dattaro , 2023)
What are the links between Anorexia Nervosa and Autism?
Anorexia nervosa, a well-known eating disorder characterised by severe calorie restriction and a strong fear of gaining weight, can occasionally co-occur with autism. Anorexia’s rigidity and control may be compatible with the organised routines and sensory preferences of some people on the autistic spectrum.
Autism and Obsession with Exercise
Exercise is great because it keeps us healthy and content. However, there are occasions when it develops into an obsession, and for those with autism spectrum disorders, this can be challenging.
- Sensitive Senses: People with autism frequently have extremely sensitive senses. Sweat sensation and movement rhythm both have a calming effect. However, it becomes an obsession for certain people. They are unable to quit working out.
- Comfort in Routine: For many people with autism, routine acts as a security blanket. In a chaotic environment, exercise brings order and control. It’s terrific, but not when it’s your exclusive source of attention.
- Coping Mechanism: Exercise is a good technique to deal with anxiety and sensory overload. Endorphins function as happiness boosters. However, if it is the only way to deal, it might be a problem.
- Cons: Excessive exercise might cause injury, weariness, and even missed opportunities. It’s like missing the forest for the trees.
- Finding Balance: The trick is to find the sweet spot – exercise for pleasure and health, not obsession. A therapist who specialises in autism can help you or someone you know find that balance.
Top 5 Reminders for Autistic People with Eating Disorders
- Understanding Sensory Sensitivities: Be aware of the sensory sensitivities that some autistic people have, since they can have a significant impact on their dietary choices and aversions.
- Value Routine and Control: Recognise that routines and a sense of control are important for many people on the autism spectrum. In the case of eating disorders, it is critical to deal constructively with these habits.
- Social Support: Recognise the difficulties that autistic people have in social circumstances and offer assistance and accommodations as needed to alleviate anxiety and discomfort.
- Early Intervention: It is critical to detect the indicators of an eating disorder as soon as possible. Early detection and intervention can significantly boost the odds of a successful recovery.
- Individualised Care: Keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Tailored treatment approaches that target both the eating issue and the autistic features of the individual are critical for recovery.
Autistic People with Eating Disorders: Treatment and Recovery
Autistic people with eating issues require specialised treatment and rehabilitation. Here are a few key components:
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including therapists, nutritionists, and doctors with experience in both eating problems and autism.
- Structured Therapy: Use therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) that may be tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Nutritional Support: Collaborate with a dietician to develop meal plans that take sensory sensitivities and individual preferences into account.
- Support Networks: Encourage family and friends to participate in the healing process, giving the autistic person with a solid support system.
- Patience and adaptability: Recognise that development may be gradual and nonlinear. Allow for failures and minor successes along the road and be patient and adaptive.
Support for Autistic People with Eating Disorders?
Now, let’s talk about the pillar of support, the unsung hero in the journey of recovery, especially for autistic individuals dealing with eating disorders. Support here is like a comforting hand on your shoulder, reassuring and guiding you through the toughest times. Family, friends, and caregivers are the backbone of this support system. It’s all about understanding, patience, and an abundance of empathy. Creating a safe space that respects their sensory quirks and routines, makes a world of difference. Seek out professionals who understand both autism and eating disorders – they’re your champions, providing tailored guidance and treatment. Don’t overlook the magic of peer support groups either. They’re like your comrades on this adventure, sharing their stories, offering tips, and walking alongside you towards that brighter future.
In conclusion, the interaction of autism and eating disorders is a difficult issue. Still, with knowledge, understanding, and specialised treatment, persons on the spectrum may receive the assistance they require to manage these issues and begin on a path towards recovery and well-being.
References:
Dattaro , L. (2023, February 23). Anorexia’s link to autism, explained. Spectrum. https://www.spectrumnews.org/news/anorexias-link-to-autism-explained/#:~:text=Here%20is%20what%20researchers%20know,people%20with%20anorexia%20are%20autistic.