What’s the link between autism and anorexia?

Anorexia nervosa (commonly referred to as anorexia) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) share some similar features and behavior patterns. For example, perfectionism and an intense need for control can show up in both conditions. And these conditions can cause other similar concerns, including social difficulties, trouble with emotional regulation, and sensitivity to things like loud sounds or bright lights.  

Research shows that there’s also a high rate of co-occurrence between anorexia and autism. In 2017, one study of women with anorexia found that approximately 23% of the participants also met the diagnostic criteria for autism. Additionally, a 2020 study revealed that teenagers with eating disorders also displayed more signs of autism compared to peers without anorexia.

Understanding the link between anorexia and autism can help you seek out the specialized care you need to treat both conditions so you can feel your best. 

What’s the connection between anorexia nervosa and autism?

Many people who live with eating disorders have other mental health conditions as well. Conditions that frequently occur alongside eating disorders include anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Recent studies have also shown that anorexia commonly occurs alongside autism as well.

Anorexia and autism have some things in common, like how people may think in very rigid ways or struggle with social situations. For example, a person with anorexia may have strict rules about food, which could make social gatherings challenging. This is similar to how a person with autism might find it hard to navigate conversations at those same gatherings.

Research indicates that autism can increase the severity of anorexia symptoms. Autism can also impact what drives your anorexia symptoms in a few key ways:

• Desire for control: Many people with autism may experience the world as unpredictable or overwhelming. Anorexia can provide a sense of control by leading a person to strictly managing food intake and body weight.
• Perfectionism: Perfectionism is a common feature of autism. People may strive for their perceived perfect body or diet, fueling the relationship between autism and anorexia.
• Sensory discomfort: Autistic people may also face sensory challenges. This can lead to avoidance of certain foods due to their appearance, taste, or texture. In severe cases, this can lead to an eating disorder.

Seven tips for navigating co-occurring autism and anorexia

Autism and anorexia can interact in unique ways. One condition can impact the other, creating new symptoms or increasing the severity of others. As a result, navigating comorbid autism and anorexia can require an individualized approach that takes into account your unique needs.

Here are some helpful tips for navigating autism and anorexia at the same time. Keep in mind that you can tailor these strategies to your individual needs and experiences.

1. Develop a routine. A structured routine can help alleviate many of the symptoms of autism and anorexia. Establishing a consistent daily schedule provides predictability, which can be key to managing both conditions. 
2. Be mindful of sensory sensitivities. Sensitivity to certain types of sensory input is common with autism. This can also extend to food, impacting eating behaviors. Identifying textures and flavors that provide key nutrients while also being considerate of sensitivities can help you manage autism and anorexia. 
3. Engage in supportive therapies. There are a variety of therapies tailored to those with both autism and eating disorders. Finding the right therapist and type of therapy can be crucial in managing these conditions. 
4. Incorporate positive reinforcement. Celebrate small victories, like trying a new food or ingredient. Doing so can help build confidence and motivation, encouraging further progress.
5. Make customized meal plans. Everyone has different routines, preferences, and dietary needs. Working alongside a dietitian to create a customized meal plan lets you accommodate both sensory sensitivities and nutritional needs.
6. Address anxiety. Anxiety often occurs alongside both autism and anorexia. For this reason, stress-reducing activities can be helpful. These include meditation, breathwork, exercise, reading, and spending time in nature and with loved ones.
7. Set realistic goals. Progress can be slow and not always linear. Along with celebrating small achievements, establishing achievable, realistic goals can help you maintain motivation while reducing overwhelming feelings.

It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to adapt these strategies to fit your unique circumstances.

Finding the right approach to autism and anorexia treatment

Autism can complicate effective treatment for anorexia by increasing the severity of anorexia symptoms and making communication with healthcare professionals more challenging. People with autism may find social interactions overwhelming, leading to anxiety or discomfort in unfamiliar settings, like therapy. Therefore, it’s essential to find a provider who can address both anorexia and autism in their treatment approach. 

Treating autism and anorexia comorbidity

Treating the co-occurring anorexia and autism can be significantly different than treating anorexia alone. However, in both circumstances, an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and personal preferences is essential for achieving the most effective results.

Integrated treatment approaches that address both anorexia and autism simultaneously can include a combination of:

• Talk therapy: Therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people address the unhelpful thoughts they have behind their anorexia while improving emotion regulation linked to autism.
• Nutritional counseling: A registered dietician with expertise in eating disorders can create a personalized meal plan that considers sensory sensitivities and nutritional needs.
• Holistic approaches: Complimentary therapeutic approaches and personal self-care strategies such as mindfulness, yoga, or art therapy can enhance emotional regulation and self awareness.
• Family involvement: Engaging family members in treatment can foster a supportive environment and can provide education about both disorders to allow them to provide proper support.
• Behavioral interventions: Strategies to modify eating and social behaviors can help people develop healthier routines and reduce anxiety surrounding meal times.

Find care with Rula

If you’re living with an eating disorder or other mental health condition, consider working with a mental health professional. If you have both anorexia and autism, it’s important to find a mental health professional who can help you address both conditions at the same time. 

At Rula, our therapist-matching tool allows you to connect with a therapist who understands your unique needs, accepts your insurance, and can see you as soon as tomorrow. And if medication ends up being part of your treatment plan, Rula can connect you with in-network psychiatric care too.

Get started with Rula today