Despite increased awareness, there are still many misconceptions about ARFID. This can make it difficult for sufferers to seek help and for loved ones to understand the disorder. Below, I’ve taken a look at some of the most common myths about ARFID, highlighting how misleading and false the information is.
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Do You Believe Any of These Common ARFID Myths?
Myth – ARFID is a Form of ‘Picky Eating’
Though ARFID can sometimes look like extreme picky or fussy eating, it goes much deeper. People with ARFID avoid foods not just because of taste preferences, but due to having intense fears around food, such as choking, texture or past traumatic experiences. For some sufferers, even the smell or sight of certain foods can cause a lot of anxiety. Unlike picky eating, ARFID can lead to restrictions that affect physical health, emotional wellbeing and daily life.
Myth – ARFID Only Affects Children
While ARFID is often diagnosed in children, it can affect people of any age. Some adults have struggled with restrictive eating habits since childhood, while others develop ARFID or SED later in life, triggered by specific incidents or medical issues. Adults with ARFID may have a long history of food aversion, leading to nutritional deficiencies, social isolation or anxiety around eating with others.
Myth – ARFID is Something People Grow Out Of
ARFID is a complex eating disorder, not a phase that will eventually disappear with time. Without proper intervention, individuals with ARFID are likely to carry complex eating behaviour into adulthood. Since ARFID is often driven by anxiety, it requires targeted treatment to help sufferers overcome the underlying causes and shift their relationship with food.
Myth – Exposure Therapy is the Only Solution to ARFID
Exposure therapy – which involves gradual introduction to new or feared foods – is a common approach for ARFID. But, it’s not the only way to treat the disorder. Some therapies focus on addressing the subconscious fears behind food aversion, which can lead to a faster and less anxiety-provoking solution. With my therapy, I keep everything relaxed, and I get to the bottom of what’s causing the brain to see food as a threat. It’s a way to combat ARFID, without food exposure or food chaining, both of which can be stressful.
Myth – ARFID Treatment Requires Long, Ongoing Therapy
Some approaches to ARFID involve gradual exposure and extended therapy sessions, but not all ARFID treatments are long and ongoing Some newer therapies, such as my unique approach, focuses on rapid interventions, with many individuals noticing significant improvement after just one session. There’s no reason why overcoming ARFID or SED has to be a time consuming, months long process.
There’s no denying that ARFID is a complex disorder, but it’s also treatable. With the right approach, you can shift your relationship with food, reduce anxiety and enjoy a more balanced, fulfilling diet, without months of stress-inducing sessions. Get in touch to find out more.
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