Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been associated with a high level of comorbidity with various psychiatric disorders.1 Eating disorders (EDs) share similar symptoms with ADHD, and research has found that there is an increased likelihood of being diagnosed with an ED if someone has ADHD.
Whilst there is no single cause for ADHD,1 it is thought to be associated with an imbalance in brain chemistry,2 with evidence suggesting that individuals with ADHD may have deficiencies of dopamine,3,4 which is an essential part of the body’s reward circuit. This can lead to increased urges to participate in behaviours, such as overeating and substance use, in an attempt to achieve the same reward that others may get from less intense behaviours.
Prevalence of EDs among those with ADHD
Girls with ADHD are four times more likely to have an ED than girls without ADHD and six times more likely to present with bulimia nervosa (BN).5
Binge eating disorder (BED) is commonly seen amongst individuals with…..