Neurodivergent individuals face unique eating disorder treatment challenges

The Butterfly Foundation highlights that seeking help for eating disorders can be especially tough for neurodivergent and gender-diverse individuals. Research suggests that these groups face unique challenges in getting diagnosed and treated. Chantel Le Cross shares their experience of waiting nearly 20 years for an autism diagnosis. They deal with avoidant/restrictive food intake but have not received adequate support for their eating disorder. Le Cross expresses frustration about having to break their health down into separate issues to be understood by health practitioners. According to the Butterfly Foundation, about one in 23 Australians has an eating disorder, with the rate possibly reaching one in three for those with autism. Studies show that many children with autism also struggle with disordered eating. Researchers, like Kai Schweizer, stress that treatment often follows a rigid manual, neglecting individual needs and underlying causes. Laurence Cobbaert mentions that diagnostic issues arise because neurodivergent eating disorders may not focus primarily on body image, unlike typical cases. Factors such as sensory sensitivities and difficulties with hunger cues can complicate symptoms for these individuals. A report from The University of Melbourne points to diagnosis issues, especially among women and gender-diverse people in Australia. One-third of trans and gender-diverse individuals may have eating disorders, with those who are transgender and autistic being even more at risk. Schweizer cautions that policy changes, such as halting puberty blockers for trans youth, could worsen eating disorders in those seeking gender-affirming care. Cobbaert notes that existing diagnostic tools for neurodivergence often overlook those outside the standard demographic of white males, leading to misdiagnoses. In the last decade, eating disorders have risen significantly, impacting economic costs substantially. Belinda Caldwell, CEO of Eating Disorders Victoria, emphasizes the hidden costs of eating disorders in workplaces. The organization has launched the Body Peace Workplace program to foster better mental health for employees. Cobbaert calls for more action, emphasizing the oversight of eating disorders in neurodivergent populations. ARFID, a common eating disorder among this group, is not covered by Medicare or the NDIS. They urge policymakers to recognize the need for better treatment and understanding. As systemic barriers persist, individuals like Le Cross continue to advocate for their own health and seek appropriate care.