In recent years there has been much written about possible links between autism and eating disorders. Many eating disorder clinics now routinely screen new patients for autism and will then adapt treatment according to the patient’s individual needs. There is no one recommended approach, although the PEACE pathway created at the Maudsley hospital in London is being adopted by many services. The PEACE pathway specifically considers how treatment can most effectively be adapted for patients with a dual diagnosis of autism and anorexia.
Of course, people with autism spectrum conditions (ASC) can present with a wide array of eating difficulties, not just restrictive eating. The main eating disorder categories can exist within the ASC population including anorexia, ARFID, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. Individuals might overeat certain foods because of the comfort it gives them or they might never experience feelings of fullness. At the other end of the scales certain tastes, textures and colours might be avoided as they trigger sensory overload for example.
Three sessions are now being offered on a rolling basis to carers of loved ones with an eating disorder and an ASC or high level autistic traits:
Session 1: Autism & ED skills illustration of New Maudsley skills session.
Illustration of New Maudsley techniques in the context of co-existing autism. This is a listen and learn session around what the research tells us and how New Maudsley skills can be adapted and used to support a loved one with autism.
Session 2: Skills practice session on autism affirming communication styles.
Practical skills exploring communication techniques when there is autism present. This is more of an interactive session looking at the scenarios and challenges that participants are facing.
Session 3: Skills practice session on autism friendly techniques for planning for change.
Practical skills exploring ways to help your loved one plan for change and start to make small changes as they build confidence.
Within these sessions we can consider three very common questions:
- What useful information can I provide the eating disorder team about my loved one?
- How can I tell if a behaviour is emanating from the ASC or the eating disorder?
- How should treatment be adapted for my loved one with autism?
