Eating Disorders
Understanding the Link Between Eating Disorders
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often extends beyond childhood, affecting up to 60% of adults. However, many individuals remain undiagnosed due to stigma or lack of awareness, with only 11% receiving proper treatment.
ADHD frequently coexists with other mental health conditions, making diagnosis and treatment complex. It is particularly linked to Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and impulsive eating behaviours. Emotional dysregulation, a common feature in one-third of ADHD patients, can further exacerbate disordered eating patterns.
Eating Disorders and ADHD: A Hidden Connection
ADHD is more than just difficulty focusing—it is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that can persist into adulthood, affecting up to 60% of individuals. However, many adults remain undiagnosed due to stigma, lack of awareness, or overlapping symptoms with other mental health conditions. As a result, only 11% of those with ADHD receive treatment.
The ADHD and Eating Disorders Link
Many individuals with ADHD experience impulsive eating patterns, bingeing behaviours, and emotional dysregulation, all of which contribute to the development of Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and other eating disorders. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, these challenges can go unnoticed, leading to further mental health struggles.
The Overlapping Challenges of ADHD and Mental Health
- Depression: Affects up to 53% of individuals with ADHD, significantly impacting daily life.
- Treatment-Resistant Depression: ADHD is present in 30% of cases, often remaining undiagnosed.
- Bipolar Disorder: Co-occurs with ADHD in up to 47% of cases, complicating symptom management.
- Anxiety Disorders: Affect nearly 50% of ADHD patients, intensifying emotional distress.
- Chronic Insomnia: Often a hidden symptom of undiagnosed ADHD, contributing to mental and physical exhaustion.
- Undiagnosed ADHD: A significant source of anxiety and distress for high-functioning young people and adults, often mistaken for other conditions.
At our Eating Disorders Treatment Clinic, we recognise the deep connection between ADHD and disordered eating. Our specialised approach addresses the root causes of bingeing behaviours, emotional dysregulation, and co-existing mental health challenges, ensuring comprehensive and compassionate care tailored to each individual.
ADHD and Co-Existing Mental Health Conditions
- Depression: Affects up to 53% of individuals with ADHD, intensifying emotional distress.
- Treatment-Resistant Depression: ADHD is present in 30% of cases, often remaining undetected.
- Bipolar Disorder: Co-occurs with ADHD in up to 47% of cases, making symptom management more complex.
- Anxiety Disorders: Nearly 50% of individuals with ADHD also struggle with chronic anxiety.
- Chronic Insomnia: Can be an early warning sign of undiagnosed ADHD, disrupting overall well-being.
- Undiagnosed ADHD: A significant contributor to anxiety and emotional distress for high-functioning young people and adults.
Comprehensive, Individualised Care
At our Eating Disorders Treatment Clinic in Australia, we specialise in recognising and treating the interconnected challenges of ADHD, eating disorders, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Our approach is designed to uncover the root causes of disordered eating and provide effective, evidence-based support to help individuals regain control of their health and well-being.
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ADHD Health Care Team
General Practitioner
Medications management (including Schedule 8 medications)
Optimising physical health
Education on nutrition and lifestyle
Coordinating your healthcare providers team
Psychiatrist
Diagnostic assessment
Medications recommendations
Schedule 8 medications – optional support
Multidisciplinary care planning
Work&Study support
Psychologist
Functional assessment
Optimising performance
Academic and Career Support and Coaching
ADHD coaching
Interpersonal effectiveness
Trauma work
Mental Health care Plan
Emotional Regulation Specialist
Help with emotional dysregulation
Correction of impulsivity and self-destructive behaviours
Correction of personality-related problems
Dialectic-Behavioural Therapy
