This makes a lot of sense! Fortunately, I have seen an increased awareness of neurodivergence in many of the eating disorder treatment centers locally, and have taken continuing education about this convergence. Most of the studies I have come across also point to the increased prevalence of binge eating disorders among folks with ADHD, but not anorexia, which, of course, involves so much constraint.
Managing ADHD in patients with eating disorders is especially challenging because the most effective medications often suppress appetite, which can reinforce restrictive eating behaviors. On the other hand, impulsive eating is very common in individuals with untreated ADHD and not treating this risks obesity and all of the health risks it incurs. There's a well-established, bidirectional relationship between ADHD and obesity: ADHD increases the risk of obesity, and obesity can worsen ADHD symptoms. I agree with you and hope that people who work in eating disorder clinics recognize the complex comorbid relationship with ADHD and eating disorders.
This makes a lot of sense! Fortunately, I have seen an increased awareness of neurodivergence in many of the eating disorder treatment centers locally, and have taken continuing education about this convergence. Most of the studies I have come across also point to the increased prevalence of binge eating disorders among folks with ADHD, but not anorexia, which, of course, involves so much constraint.
Managing ADHD in patients with eating disorders is especially challenging because the most effective medications often suppress appetite, which can reinforce restrictive eating behaviors. On the other hand, impulsive eating is very common in individuals with untreated ADHD and not treating this risks obesity and all of the health risks it incurs. There's a well-established, bidirectional relationship between ADHD and obesity: ADHD increases the risk of obesity, and obesity can worsen ADHD symptoms. I agree with you and hope that people who work in eating disorder clinics recognize the complex comorbid relationship with ADHD and eating disorders.