Autism Spectrum Disorder (ADS) is a neurodevelopmental condition; meaning that individuals with ASD will likely experience their environment differently to
their neurotypical peers.

Individuals with ASD commonly experience sensory processing difficulties which can include sounds, smell, taste and body sensations. It can make it hard for them to partake in everyday activities and social situations. They can also struggle to be introspective and also to understand the minds of others.

It is common for children with ASD to have eating difficulties which can continue into adulthood; these are usually linked to sensory experiences and preferences rather than weight and shape concerns.

However a link between Eating disorders and Autism spectrum conditions is being increasingly recognised. Recently the National Eating Disorder service at the Maudsley Hospital has reported that up to 35% of the women they see meet the criteria for Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It remains unclear if ASD is a direct factor or developing an eating disorder.

When we think about eating disorders we often consider weight and shape concerns and holding thinness as a key value as being the core issue. However in Autism and eating disorders the restrictive eating and low body weight that creates a numbing of sensory overwhelm and emotions can be the driving influence.

When an individual has both Autism and an eating disorder treatment needs to be highly personalised considering the individual's experience of their ASD and the eating disorder psychopathology. There is no single model of treatment that is shown to be effective on its own and treatment should be created for the individual by a clinician who is expert in both areas.