Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is hoping to raise awareness of ARFID during Eating Disorder Awareness Week which takes place 26 February – 3 March 2024.
Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a lesser known eating disorder. As a relatively new diagnosis, data is limited but in one study* it was found that around 1 in 33 children may show signs of ARFID.
“People with ARFID often get mistaken for fussy eaters” says Serena Williamson, Lead Dietitian in the All Age Eating Disorders Service at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
“But it’s more extreme. There are a number of reasons someone with ARFID could avoid or restrict their dietary intake. This might be down to a lack of interest in eating, or an extreme difficulty with the smell/texture/taste of certain foods or feeling anxious about eating following a negative experience with food at any age; for example choking, allergies or sickness. The restriction can lead to significant concerns with their physical health and has an impact on their daily lives.”
But a pilot across the Black Country is helping to change that with a dedicated team at the Trust who support people presenting with ARFID.
“Our pilot has been going really well” explains Serena “We’re 18 months in and during that time we’ve supported people of all ages through assessment, diagnosis and treatment. We are also starting to roll out training to professionals and continue to try and raise awareness of this condition.
“It’s so rewarding to see the impact we can have. We often meet people who have lived with ARFID for most of their life and it’s great to be able to work with a range of professionals to make a real difference to their relationship with food.”
Getting early help is key with any eating disorder and people are urged to speak to their GP or a health professional if they are concerned about their eating. There’s also a range of resources available from national charities BEAT, Be Body Positive and ARFID Awareness UK.
*Data taken from Royal College of Psychiatrists Avoidant/Restrictive food disorder article