Neurodivergence and eating disorders

‍At Beat, we are excited to launch the theme for Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW) ’27 which kicks off on 22 February and runs until 28 February.
The theme will be neurodivergence and eating disorders.
Why this theme?
People with eating disorders, those caring for them, and professionals have told us there is a real need for more information and understanding about neurodivergence and eating disorders.
Neurodivergence means that someone's brain works, learns or processes information differently from what is considered 'typical'. This can include, but is not limited to, autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia and Tourette syndrome. Being neurodivergent means people may think, feel, communicate or respond to the world in different ways.
Research shows that autistic people and people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to develop an eating disorder. There is also some evidence that other types of neurodivergence may be linked to eating disorders or disordered eating.

This theme will help more people understand the link between neurodivergence and eating disorders, and help people know where to go for support.
How you can help us with EDAW 2027
We have launched a survey aimed at those with lived experience of an eating disorder and who also identify as neurodivergent, and those who have supported a neurodivergent person with an eating disorder. The results of this survey will feed into the development of EDAW including the content and resources.
This survey is open now and closes at the end of July: https://beateatingdisorders.tfaforms.net/250.
Thanks for your help,

For more information please contact Jo Whitfield, National Lead Wales, Beat Eating Disorders: j.whitfield@beateatingdisorders.org.uk https://edaw.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/

Source: Beat Eating Disorders