Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a subcategory of eating disorders, that may present itself in a variety of different ways, such as excessively picky eating or a lack of interest surrounding food. Unlike other eating disorders that are centered around negative body image, ARFID can be caused by complex fears and anxieties about food and the consequences of eating, such as choking or vomiting. This can sometimes be caused by an interplay of different factors named risk factors. Individuals with the presence of these factors are at a greater risk of developing the condition. These include the experience of food-related trauma such as choking or food insecurity; a biological or genetic history of eating disorders; fears or anxieties surrounding food; aversions to different textures; or the presence of certain associated neurological conditions, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and OCD. However, the exact cause is currently unknown, although the presence of any of the above-mentioned risk factors significantly increases the likelihood of developing this condition.

The condition affects both children and adults, and males and females alike, however, is more common in childhood.

ARFID looks different for everyone. For some, it may result in a lack of interest in eating, while for others it may cause anxiety around mealtimes, or aversions to foods with undesired colours, tastes, textures and smells. Often mistaken for ‘picky-eating’, this condition is a serious and complicated mental health condition that can often remain even through the use of various treatments.

ARFID can result in serious health implications, as it limits nutritional and caloric intake. This can result in stunted growth in children, significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, as well as negative impairments on the ability to complete daily activities as usual.

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder can impact the whole body in different ways, detrimentally affecting your health significantly. It can lead to hormonal imbalances, osteoporosis, dry skin, brittle nails and thin hair, headaches, fainting and dizziness, poor circulation, low blood pressure, and in severe cases, heart failure.

ARFID can be treated through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This may involve exposure therapy, whereby the participant is gradually exposed to fear foods with the support of a therapist and various relaxation techniques. Additionally, it can also be treated through Responsive Feeding Therapy (RFT), where the individual’s support system creates distraction free and calming routines around mealtimes, to develop positive behaviors and routines, and take away some of the anxieties regarding food that are present with the condition.

If you are interested in accessing treatment options, support coordinators can help put you in touch with the right qualified professional for you. At RVP Care Services, we work alongside the team at iDeal Care Services, our sister company, to find the right help for you. Our disability support services in Pakenham, Narre Warren, and Officer are designed to provide comprehensive care. Reach out to us today, so we can start to develop a comprehensive care team suited to your specific needs.

Some of the symptoms of Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder include, but are not limited to:

• Significant or unusual weight loss
• Lethargy and excessive tiredness
• Dizziness
• Thin body hair
• Lack of appetite
• Troubles remaining focused and paying attention
• Irrational fear of choking
• Picky eating

Our team of professional, empathetic and kind support workers in Pakenham, Narre Warren, and Officer are adequately equipped to handle an array of complex mental health conditions. As experienced NDIS support workers, we have specific knowledge in treating other mental health conditions, and specifically other eating disorders. The support workers at RVP are more than prepared and equipped to support you or your loved ones in this journey with ARFID.

We provide compassionate in home disability care workers who can assist with creating positive mealtime environments. Whether you need a disability support worker for personal care or a disability carer for school drop off and pick up, our team can help. We also offer support for daily activities with disability care workers for shopping and disability care workers for homework help.

Reach out to our team at RVP Care Services to organise a support worker in home services that can meet all your needs and promote independence and positive wellbeing. Let us help you find a support worker who is the right fit for your journey.