Haven of Hope Eating Disorder Care Center

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Treatment

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by a limited intake of food and a strong aversion to certain textures, colors, or smells of food, leading to significant nutritional deficiency and an inability to eat a variety of foods.

ARFID Treatment in Tennessee

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder involves an avoidance of certain foods or entire food groups without the intense fear of weight gain typical of anorexia. Individuals with ARFID may experience symptoms such as significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, or failure to gain weight during growth periods.

Signs & Symptoms of ARFID:

Avoidance of certain food textures, colors, or smells
Limited food variety and refusal to eat whole categories of food
Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight during childhood
Nutritional deficiencies that may require supplementation
Lack of interest in food or eating
Anxiety or distress related to eating situations
Difficulty in social situations involving food
Gastrointestinal issues related to eating
Sensory sensitivities to food

Comparing ARFID to Anorexia

While both ARFID and anorexia involve food restriction, they differ significantly in motivation and behaviors. Anorexia is driven by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to severe food restriction and compensatory behaviors. In contrast, ARFID does not involve concerns about body weight or shape; instead, it often stems from sensory sensitivities or aversions to certain foods, resulting in limited dietary intake without the same level of psychological distress related to body image.

Help is a Phone Call Away

Many misconceptions surround eating disorders, but if you suspect you are struggling, it’s essential to seek treatment promptly. Our residential eating disorder care center offers personalized support tailored to each client’s specific needs, providing the tools for lasting recovery.

Benefits of Individual Therapy for Eating Disorders

Individual therapy at Haven of Hope is an integral part of the eating disorder recovery process, offering numerous benefits to help clients manage and overcome disordered eating patterns. Each client receives personalized care, ensuring they have the tools to achieve lasting recovery. Our individualized therapy program instills real hope by teaching and strengthening essential skills, such as:

Developing healthier coping mechanisms Building self-esteem and body acceptance Challenging and reframing negative thought patterns Addressing underlying trauma and emotional triggers Creating sustainable, balanced nutrition habits