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Understanding Avoidant/ Restrictive
Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
with Evolving Minds

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a serious eating disorder that extends beyond typical picky eating. Individuals with ARFID may avoid or restrict food due to sensory sensitivities, fear of negative experiences such as choking or vomiting, or a limited interest in eating. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by concerns about body image, although it can still have significant physical, emotional, and social impacts.

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ARFID can lead to serious health concerns, including malnutrition, low energy and delayed growth in children. Emotionally it can cause anxiety, shame, or frustration, while socially, it may lead to isolation or challenges in relationships.

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Signs of ARFID

 

People with ARFID may experience:

  • Severe restriction in the variety or amount of food consumed.

  • Nutritional deficiencies or reliance on supplements to meet basic needs.

  • Weight loss or difficulty maintaining a healthy weight.

  • Anxiety or distress around eating.

  • Disruption to daily life, such as avoiding social events involving food.

 

How Evolving Minds Can Help

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At Evolving Minds Counselling, we take a compassionate and tailored approach to supporting those with ARFID. Our therapists use evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and mindfulness techniques, to address the emotional and behavioural patterns underlying ARFID. We also work collaboratively with dietitians, medical professionals and families to create a holistic treatment plan.

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Through therapy, we aim to help:

  • Reduce anxiety around food and eating.

  • Explore and address the factors contributing to food avoidance.

  • Develop healthier eating patterns and relationships with food.

  • Reclaim confidence and improve overall well-being.

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If you or someone you care about is struggling with ARFID, seeking support is a crucial first step toward recovery.

 

Contact us on 02 8519 4197 or click the button below to book an appointment.

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