ARFID can affect children and teenagers, as well as adults, and is characterised by avoiding some foods or types of food, and/or restricting what you eat.
Young people with ARFID are often underweight but this isn’t necessarily the case. The condition can occur at any weight.
It is important to remember that ARFID does not mean the person is a fussy eater or refusing to eat for attention. Nor is it driven by concern about weight or body shape. It is a mental health condition that requires professional help.
ARFID can lead to significant health problems, including malnutrition and weight loss. It is frequently associated with other conditions such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and austim.
What causes ARFID?
There are a number of psychological factors that contribute to a person developing ARFID, the most common being:
- Sensitivity or aversion to the taste, smell, texture or appearance of certain foods
- Fear of the negative consequences of eating, such as vomiting, choking or stomach aches
- A lack of interest in food or eating
- Some sort of traumatic experience in childhood
Supporting a child with ARFID in school
- Avoid pressure and criticism. Never force a child with ARFID to eat or try new foods, and don’t comment negatively on their food choices. Pressure increases anxiety and can worsen the condition
- Be kind and compassionate. Listen to their concerns in a non-judgemental and open way
- Allow them to bring in “safe foods”: Pupils with ARFID should retain access to their preferred foods, even if they don’t align with what are considered to be healthy options. Restrictions can lead to them eating nothing all day
- Create a safe eating environment: A quiet space away from a noisy school canteen can be less overwhelming, and also avoids them being scrutinised or feeling self-conscious about eating
- Consistent support: A designated, trusted staff member to whom the child can go at mealtimes, or times of general distress, can be helpful
- Plan your curriculum ahead: Inform the family in advance about any cookery or food technology lessons, or food-related treats, that the child might find uncomfortable
- Educate staff: Foster a good level of understanding of ARFID among all school staff to ensure consistent, empathetic responses
- Model desirable behaviours: Encourage positive attitudes about food and nutrition, but without any judgement or pressure on the child to participate
- No hiding of foods: Do not hide new or unfamiliar foods within accepted ones, as sensory sensitivities mean even tiny changes might be detected, leading to a rejection of the original “safe food”
- Collaborate with parents and develop a plan detailing what works best for the child and what foods they can eat
- Seek professional help and advice if you notice the child losing weight rapidly or there are chance to their health
*For more information go to: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/about-eating-disorders/types/arfid/. Call 0808 801 0677 for the Beat helpline.
