Exploring recovery from anorexia in autistic adults: a qualitative study

TL;DR

This study explores how autistic adults experience recovery from anorexia nervosa, highlighting unique challenges and non-linear progress.

Contribution

The study identifies specific barriers and facilitators of recovery for autistic individuals with anorexia, emphasizing the need for autism-aware eating disorder services.

Findings

Recovery from anorexia in autistic adults is non-linear and influenced by sensory and interoceptive traits.

Autistic traits such as sensory sensitivities and internal voice impact the recovery process.

Participants emphasized the importance of adapting treatment approaches to accommodate autistic traits.

Abstract

To examine the barriers and facilitators of anorexia nervosa (AN) recovery in adults with autism.

Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with autistic adults who identified as being in recovery or having recovered from AN.

Participants were recruited via advertisements on social media and an eating disorder (ED) forum. Online Zoom interviews with 12 participants were conducted from October to November 2023.

Overall, 12 autistic adults who identified as being in recovery or recovered from AN were included (11 women and 1 man; aged between 18–50 years).

Four key themes were identified: ‘Sensory Experiences’, ‘Recovery in progress’, ‘Changing to healthy mindsets’ and ‘Engaging with treatment’. Results indicated that recovery for participants did not follow a linear path, with the role of autistic traits, such as sensory sensitivities, interoception and the internal voice, making recovery challenging.

This study provides insight into the challenges and motivations experienced during the recovery process. Findings highlight the need for further research to improve guidelines and autism awareness in ED services.