ARFID Information

ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) can bring up a complex mix of emotions, both for those living with it and for those who care about them. Here are some emotions often associated with ARFID:

1. Fear: People with ARFID may experience a deep sense of fear or anxiety around food, especially when it comes to trying new foods or eating in social situations. This fear is often rooted in past negative experiences, like choking, vomiting, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

2. Frustration: Both individuals with ARFID and their loved ones may feel frustration. The person with ARFID might be frustrated by their inability to overcome the restriction or fear, while loved ones might struggle to understand why food seems like such a difficult challenge.

3. Shame: Because ARFID is often misunderstood as just being a "picky eater," people with the disorder may feel ashamed of their eating habits, especially when others criticize or don’t understand their struggles. They may feel like they’re "broken" or not living up to societal expectations of eating behaviors.

4. Helplessness: Both the person with ARFID and those supporting them can feel helpless, especially when it feels like progress is slow or nonexistent. The disorder is deeply rooted in the emotional and sensory experience of food, making it tough to overcome without the right treatment.

5. Isolation: ARFID can be isolating, as it might prevent someone from participating in social gatherings, eating out, or even enjoying food with others. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, as they may not feel understood or included.

6. Relief: For those who are able to seek treatment and find effective coping strategies, there can be a sense of relief. Finally understanding their disorder and making progress can bring a sense of control over a situation that often feels uncontrollable.

7. Guilt: Individuals with ARFID might feel guilty about their eating behaviors, especially if their eating habits are negatively impacting their health or affecting the people around them.

8. Sadness: The emotional toll of living with ARFID can bring about sadness or even depression, as it affects both physical and emotional well-being, and can interfere with daily life.

It’s important to note that these emotions can vary from person to person. Recovery from ARFID often involves addressing these emotional layers along with the physical aspect of the disorder. It can be a journey, but with the right support, healing is possible.

Here at LSA Therapy we provide with the support you need.