06/10/2025
ADHD and eating disorders may seem unrelated — but research shows a strong overlap in how they affect the brain and behaviour.
Both can involve challenges with impulsivity, emotional regulation, dopamine/reward processing, and self-esteem.
While ADHD often presents with inattention, restlessness, and executive functioning difficulties, eating disorders are marked by body image concerns and disordered eating patterns.
Where they meet is in the shared struggle for control, regulation, and self-understanding.
Raising awareness of this link helps ensure people receive the right diagnosis and integrated care, rather than treatment for one while the other goes unseen.
✨ Understanding the overlap creates pathways to earlier, more compassionate intervention.
🔬 References:
Nazar, B. P. et al. (2016). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and eating disorders: A systematic review. World Journal of Psychiatry.
Bleck, J. R., & DeBate, R. D. (2013). Exploring the co-occurrence of self-reported ADHD and eating disorders in a nationally representative sample. Eating Behaviors.
Cortese, S. et al. (2012). Brain imaging of ADHD: A meta-analysis. Biological Psychiatry.
Faraone, S. V. & Larsson, H. (2019). Genetics of ADHD. Molecular Psychiatry.