When you hear the word "addiction," what comes to mind?

When you hear the word "addiction," what comes to mind? Alcohol, drugs, gambling? 

But do you ever think of food?

ADHD and Autism are increasingly being recognised as having links with food addiction and eating disorders. Yet, they’re still rarely discussed in this context.

It wasn’t until after my ADHD diagnosis—when I started gaining more awareness and understanding of my past—that I was able to join the dots. 

When I was a teenager I developed a serious eating disorder which lasted for fifteen years. But at the time, I had no idea it was linked to ADHD and autism.

Eating disorders are complex creatures and support for them in the UK is sparse at the best of times.

I had to claw my way out of that deep, dark place alone. And even after I recovered, I carried so much shame and guilt that I didn’t speak about it for years.

Since getting my ADHD diagnosis (and waiting on an Autism assessment) and realising this link, I now feel that it is important to speak up about neurodivergence and eating disorders. 

The more we raise awareness, the more we challenge the stigma. And the more people might feel able to put their hands up and say, "That happened to me too," or "How can we better support people going through this?"

I think of the countless women I’ve known in my life who have struggled with their weight and over-eating. 

And I wonder—how many of them are neurodivergent?