5 Coping Strategies for ARFID

woman sits on a couch and talks to a therapist about needing help with coping with ARFIDAvoidant-restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a serious eating disorder characterized by extreme aversion or avoidance toward certain foods. It involves a restrictive relationship with food that can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, and interference with daily life. Living with ARFID can be an isolating experience, but recovery is possible. With the proper support, people can rebuild a healthier relationship with food and regain control of their lives.

Sanford Behavioral Health offers avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder treatment in Michigan. Our treatment programs for eating disorders provide compassionate and expert care. We offer residential, outpatient, and family programs to help people overcome ARFID and live a healthy, fulfilling life. Call 616.202.3326 today to explore our treatment options and what may suit you or a loved one’s recovery goals.

5 Coping Strategies for ARFID

1. Seek Professional Help

The first step in coping with ARFID is seeking professional help. A licensed therapist or counselor who specializes in eating disorders can provide a proper diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan. They can also offer support and guidance throughout the recovery process. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to address any underlying mental health conditions that may be contributing to ARFID.

2. Understand Your Triggers

It is important to understand what triggers your ARFID symptoms and try to avoid them. These triggers can be emotional, sensory, or physical and may include certain textures, smells, or even memories associated with food. By identifying your triggers, you can work with your therapist to develop coping mechanisms and strategies to manage them.

3. Gradually Expose Yourself to Fear Foods

One of the main components of ARFID treatment is exposure therapy. This involves gradually exposing oneself to food that is dangerous in a controlled environment while receiving support from a therapist or nutritionist. Over time, repeated exposure can help decrease anxiety and increase tolerance towards these foods.

4. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

Having a strong support system is crucial in coping with ARFID. Surround yourself with people who understand your struggles and offer you encouragement and understanding. Consider joining a support group for people with eating disorders to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

5. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness

Caring for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is essential in overcoming ARFID. This includes practicing self-care activities such as getting enough sleep, engaging in enjoyable hobbies, and finding healthy ways to cope with stress. Additionally, incorporating mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help manage anxiety and promote relaxation.

Overcoming ARFID: ARFID Treatment Options

Treatment plans are tailored to each person and involve working with experts to build healthier eating habits and reduce food-related anxieties. Here are some standard treatment options for ARFID:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) โ€“ A therapeutic approach aimed at identifying and transforming negative thought patterns associated with food and eating behaviors.
  • Exposure therapy โ€“ Gradual and controlled exposure to feared foods to build comfort, reduce anxiety, and increase tolerance over time.
  • Nutritional counseling โ€“ Personalized guidance from a dietitian to promote proper nutrition, address deficiencies, and support a balanced diet.
  • Medical monitoring โ€“ Regular health check-ups with a physician to manage physical health concerns linked to restrictive eating.
  • Family-based therapy (FBT) โ€“ A collaborative approach that actively involves family members to foster encouragement, support, and a positive recovery environment.

Working with a team of professionals and leaning on a support system can help people with ARFID make steady progress and improve their relationship with food. Sanford Behavioral Health takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating ARFID, providing resources and support every step of the way.

Contact Sanford Behavioral Health for Support in Overcoming ARFID

Our experienced team of therapists, counselors, and dietitians work together to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of ARFID. We offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals to heal and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Remember that recovery from ARFID is possible with the proper support and resources. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help today. You can call 616.202.3326 now or contact us online to learn more about our ARFID treatment options in Michigan.

addiction, eating disorders, mental health treatment

Sanford Behavioral Health is an addiction, eating disorder, and mental health treatment facility serving Greater Grand Rapids, Michigan, and beyond. Our mission is to promote mental health, resilience, and well-being. Our goal is to provide practical and accessible substance use disorder, eating disorder, and mental health treatment to our patients. Sanford is led by a multi-disciplinary team offering integrative residential, outpatient and telehealth programs.