I Have Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder | ARFID

I have Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), and it impacts nearly every area of my life. Today I'd like to share some of my experiences of living with this invisible illness.
ARFID Overview & Statistics: www.nationalea...
Risk Factors: www.nationalea...
ARFID tag on tumblr: www.tumblr.com...
Support group on Facebook: www.facebook.c...
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[@MorganGale]

5-YEAR UPDATE: I've been taking a (very) extended hiatus from KZbin for personal reasons, but I hope to make videos again someday. Reading all of your comments has been a beautiful experience. Thank you for sharing with me. Since making this video, I have been diagnosed with autism and learned a lot about how sensory dysregulation affects my eating. I've learned to be gentler with myself. I found an occupational therapist (OT) who worked with me to find more foods that I can tolerate, and while I will never be "normal" (there is no such thing), I'm getting the nutrients I need in my own way. I'm still not where I want to be, but life is getting better. While I haven't made any new videos about ARFID since 2018, there are a few others in this series you can check out if you want to hear more about my experience: ► My Eating Disorder Isn't Taken Seriously - kzbin.info/www/bejne/mITEan94edp2as0 ► Trying Fruits for the First Time - kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmPQqXtjdqZrZ9E ► Living with a Rare Eating Disorder - kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXSydI1-pcxjh5Y I've also compiled a playlist of videos about ARFID, which I haven't updated in years but should still give you more content to check out: kzbin.info/aero/PLv1Jf-BSEjsRR2g20nvUgVPbZRKFKnQcD -Morgan

[@DyersEve726]

Hope you're doing well, Morgan! Your stories were so relatable. I was asked some questions about this by a friend today and shared your video with her. Thanks for being brave and talking openly about it. It's so difficult for those without it to understand. I've been struggling with relapses lately and your video was like a warm fuzzy blanket, even though you didn't mean for it to be positive. I see your strength and it feels good.

[@frickfrickfrickfrickfrickfrick]

As an Autistic person with ARFID watching this, I was sitting here hoping you'd gotten your Autism diagnosis and access to neuroaffirming care. So glad to hear it! Thanks for sharing.

[@ButterflyColors]

It’s so crazy that so many people have this disorder and yet we all thought we were the only person in the world that had it :(. Imagine how different life would be if you met just one other person with this

[@Ivythepreppyhorsegirl]

Omg

[@nureko7766]

Yessss that is so true

[@jillymcg7931]

My 22 yr old daughter 'suffers' from this and I mean that literally - it is a serious social issue. Nobody understands it and she gets constant pressure from 'well meaning' folk to try this, try that etc. She cried when she found your videos and came to me and said 'Mom, I'm not alone!' Thank you so much for sharing and bringing this disorder out into the open. I am certainly learning a great deal and she is feeling so much more better knowing she is no longer alone.

[@samanthasager9292]

jilly mcg I’m 70. My tears were from relief. No longer the weird one when dining with friends.

[@jillymcg7931]

Hi Samantha. Judging by the comments in this group and my own experience with Meg, I think most of these people will be 70 with this same issue. I feel for you, I really do. x

[@samanthasager9292]

jilly mcg Thank you! I can’t tell you the weight of guilt & stress that’s left me! Amazing!!! Bless you and yours!💗

[@ur_lina]

Hi, I'm a 22yr old just realizing this is a disorder and that I may have it, what are you and your daughter doing about it? Also, thank you for being a great parent, I'm sure your daughter is really happy to have someone that cares that much

[@jillymcg7931]

@@ur_lina Hi Lina. Thank you for the compliment. Meg and I are a team and I would do absolutely anything for her. I don't pressure her into eating anything that makes her uncomfortable or fearful. She has volunteered from time to time to 'try' something new to add to her menu and so far we have had a few successes.... all in her own time. She has found some favourite meals to eat when we go out which is great as less pressure for her from others. I wouldn't wish this on anyone and wish you the very best at conquering it sooner rather than later.

[@n_drk8929]

I cried during your video...I felt every word you said. I avoid doing social activities that include food...And it's so hard to live with this...I want to make it stop :(

[@sharon-2409]

n_drk same

[@kaylamr68]

I agree

[@anywaysso2108]

i just. relate so much hw

[@tjentertainment9901]

Same. Her talking about being punished by parents for sneakily throwing food away really strikes deep.

[@TheBigBoopy]

I always had to come up with fake allergies or bogus excuses why I couldt/ didnt want to eat. Now at least, i can start being honest with my friends about it. It used to be impossible to explain but we at least have the knowledge and know that its and eating disorder. And people might actually take us seriously now. At least we can explain now. You'll be alright, I know it :)

[@sebastianconan5806]

Glad to see representation of us, we need more publicity, so many people can't understand. Not understanding this disorder can lead to abuse, tough parents not taking gagging for an answer means a bad time for everyone.

[@idk-ux3ll]

Same. I have ARFID too, and it's SO hard. My whole life people have been telling me that I'm just a picky eater and that shit hurts. I've been struggling with this eating disorder for SO SO long. My parents don't believe me when I'm saying that I have ARFID. They just start laughing. They still think I'm just a picky eater. When my aunt asks me 'Can you give me the cheese please?. I'm just scared and I just can't touch it. And she's like: 'Stop asking for attention and STOP stop acting silly. I litterally cried, because nobody understands me. It felt so good to listen your story because just everything you say is EVERYTHING I experience. Thank you so much!

[@ShadowFan902]

It's really hard to bring yourself to talk about it, even to those closest to you. And when you do they don't take it seriously or sometimes are not even interested in hearing about it. They pass it off as something minor when for you it's probably the most important topic to be had, since it p much governs your whole life. After all these years I feel like my eating has gotten a little better, but the social problems have never faded.

[@user-jw9mt2ee1i]

I’m really sorry they’re like this. Please don’t worry, ARFID is not you asking for attention and if they’re not willing to listen or help, they’re shallow minded and can’t accept the fact people have disorders.

[@rightnow5839]

I am a mother of a child that has this diagnosis. Thank you for talking about this. It gives me insight to things he might be experiencing.

[@annakovacs246]

Whatever you do never force anything on him. My parents made me sit by my meals alone for hours until I eat them (never did) while they were enjoying themselves in the living room. Those were lonely times...

[@lemylxbean]

Same here, also a mom of a child that has this diagnosis. It’s been a struggle for everyone. But thank you for giving insights on this, it gave us a better understanding on what’s going on with my child.

[@cherierose6310]

Thank you for this. My son is like this. When he was young we tried therapist, nutritionist, doctors, we gave up pretty early as it was actually making things worse. He also stopped at 2 and is 11 now. We just give him the things he will eat and I swear chocolate milk saved his live for about 3 years. Do what you gotta do!

[@sezijastpd5428]

Where's my arfid gang, dudes?

[@loaf5483]

Here xD

[@Nebula644]

sezija stpd me

[@emileyjenkins8268]

Me too

[@potatosbed4392]

Here i think

[@dymaig6538]

Here😕

[@nellevator]

Thank you for this video, I have ARFID too and I really got what you said at the end about needing to treat it like a disorder. I only just found out a year or two ago that there was a name for what I've had my whole life, which has really helped my anxiety over food because I can say "oh hey, it's just that dumbass eating disorder i've got" instead of "god why am i such a picky eater i'm terrible." Just thank you for sharing your experience. : )

[@Julia.connolly54]

I really relate to this too. All my life I was the odd one what packing her own meals for sleep overs or summer camps when everyone else ate the pizza and burgers. Now i have a name, I'm not crazy. I've had relatves in the past judge me on my eating habits. It's not like I had ever enjoyed being picky. If only they knew the truth now. Having a diagnosis is empowering!

[@zeynepselma9618]

Sameee I just found out today

[@Zavgorodny]

Hello from Ukraine, Morgan. My name is Vladimir, I have ARFID as long as I remember myself (though when I was young it was simply called "your child is weird"). I'm 41 now, and I still not quite ready to talk about it. So thank you for spreading the word about this condition, and, well, I don't know what else to say. :-/

[@seanhampson4126]

Hearing the words I've said my entire life come out of someone else truly is strange. I'm so glad to know I'm not alone. I just found out this is an actual disorder and I'm almost 25 and have had it since I was a toddler. Thanks for showing me and so many others we aren't alone.

[@riaanbekker4355]

This hit me really hard, i've never met anyone with this disorder and it is a little comforting to know other people out there, I always avoid anything that involves food and this REALLY hurts friendships

[@Sophielu94]

Thankyou so much for sharing this. I also have arfid and I struggle to find anyone else who has it let alone understands it. I'm 22 now and it started when I was 2 and last year it nearly killed me. Lack of food caused lack of b12 and because I had no b12 what so ever in my body , I was told without the jab I would be dead a week later. I couldn't walk , I was constantly throwing up. I was yellow. I'm still trying to get help from eating disorder places. They don't want to deal with me as I'm. It anorexic. It's very upsetting to want help and want to get better but can't. I was literally living on bread and butter , but it must be a certain brand. Up until recently when they stopped the brand of butter I've been living on so I haven't been eating anything. I would literally rather starve than eat food that I don't like even though I would give anything to recover from this 😔

[@MorganGale]

Have you checked out the Facebook group I linked to in the description? Everyone there has arfid (or is a parent of someone with arfid), and there's also a psychiatrist in the group who specializes in arfid, so it's a good place to ask for help. The tumblr blogs have good advice, as well! Personally, I'd recommend starting with switching up the brands you use (at your own pace, of course) to help you get used to trying different things, and then maybe expand to other dairy products besides butter, like cheese. I'm obviously not a professional, but according to google it seems that dairy products are a good source of B12, and they're easier to eat than other food groups in my experience (esp because cheese/butter/etc. all taste similar). Also!! I've been experiencing fatigue as well, and drinking fruit juices & smoothies has significantly boosted my energy level. You can sneak a lot of nutrients (like protein powder) in those without tasting them. So yeah, start with smooth, mild-tasting things that look less threatening, and maybe drink fruits. I know it's really hard, so don't beat yourself up over it! Maybe just try a new brand for one meal or snack per day, or every other day, or even just once a week. It's better to improve slowly than to not improve at all. You got this. :^)

[@kidfishing1018]

Sophie Louise don't worry I have it too.

[@finnly1259]

dont worrk kid i have arfid too i had to go to a clinic and miss school for 2 months i was hospitalized and i totally get what your going through

[@Ashley-vj8ox]

PLEASE DON'T GIVE UP

[@natalie1816]

oh my god okay thank you so much for this video. i've been struggling with this ever since i can remember and i have the same texture/taste part of it !!! i started crying a few minutes in bc everything you said has been my biggest struggle with food and i've thought my entire life (i'm almost 17 now) that it's just bc i'm a picky eater when deep down i knew it had to be more than that bc it affected me so badly??? i randomly decided to google it today and i came across arfid and went on youtube to find some videos and i came across your channel and this video, i relate to everything. it happening suddenly at a young age, the gagging, throwing away food, liking mcdonalds food, avoiding events with food, everything!!! i don't have a diagnosis and i probably won't for another two years until i can move out bc my parents just sum it up to "i'm picky and i'll grow out of it eventually i just need to realize it's all in my mind!!1!11!!" but everything about this disorder feels like i wrote it myself. i also watched ur coming out video and im ace panro (i go by bi a lot too like u said in that video lol!!) this comment got really long im rambling omg but anyways thank you so much for talking about this and making this video and just ur channel in general, i relate to u a lot and ur videos are really really good, keep making them!!!!! :)

[@Julia.connolly54]

My parents were the same way, pretty much content to just let my eating habits be because tyring to force me to do other wise felt futile, but then I had my first panic attack about food over the summer. ARFID was already someting I had been researching and after this knew I really needed professional help. I now see a therapist and am gettting help. Don't be afriad to reach out to your school guidance counselors!

[@aasukacominghome4343]

The worst thing of ARFID when someone gives you a food that could make you feel uncomfortable *this comment is made by the ARFID gang*

[@TheMasterfulProfit]

I had ARFID from when I was around 2 years old to 14 years old and I absolutely experienced everything that you mentioned in this video. Having very hyper sensitivity to texture, avoiding social activities involving food, and just having much heightened emotions in general. It was a difficult transition even after I overcame my eating habits because then I found myself to be behind developmentally in the social aspect of things. I've had ARFID people ask me what helped me overcome it and I've always found that to be a very tricky question to answer because I am consciously aware of some of the things that helped me, but there are some things were a bit more ambiguous. I would definitely say it was a series of small little steps and having the support of people around me who were nonjudgmental, patient with my disorder, and still actively tried to gently guide me out of my comfort zone. The experience you described about going through "treatment" definitely breaks my heart. I absolutely do not believe that the way to overcome this through forced coercion like what you experienced. Anytime that people would force me to do or eat anything was never helpful. I hope you are able to find a group of patient, supporting people who will be able to help guide you through your process. I strongly believe that is the key to help overcoming this. Best wishes ahead for you :)

[@jimburby7788]

im 46 and have had arfid since i was 3. i still havent beaten it. in fact its only been recently that i learned the name of this disorder. i wish it got better but ive fought the exact thing youve spoke of for a long time. to this day i havent eaten fruits or vegetables and its amazing to people when i say i have nt tried apple pie or watermelon.. theyre like you have too.. and im like nope. the doctors have told me for years im gonna die younger because of the diet im on.. im still here and healthy so im not to sure. i hope your journey goes well. stay strong and know there are others who do understand what youre talking about. thanks for sharing

[@briannastoohs8153]

So relatable, this video made me really feel like I'm not alone in this. Eating a salad is basically a nightmare for me. The gagging, as you said, is impossible for me to avoid. Fruits and vegetables, beans, anything weirdly textured or colored is definitely very difficult for me to eat and disgusts me. In January of last year, I started making green "smoothies," but I would blend them so much and add so much liquid that it was more like a juice. The ingredients I used cut the taste really well and I started to enjoy them and how they made me feel. I've realized that consistency is the main thing that helps us with this disorder. I had those green smoothies every single day for 50 days and it helped me in so many ways. If anyone wants my exact recipe let me know! It's pineapple, strawberries, spinach, apple juice, coconut water, water, and matcha/ginger powder but I'll give exact measurements if someone wants it.

[@Irispatcher]

this is very old but i would love your recipe!!

[@briannastoohs8153]

Iris Patcher Not odd at all!! Happy for you for wanting to try it. I don’t like the taste of bananas personally, so I don’t use them, but if you want to use them you totally could. I use 1/2 a cup of frozen pineapple, 1/2 a cup of frozen or fresh strawberries, a big handful of spinach, half a cup or one cup of lite apple juice (use more if you’re getting used to the taste still), and about half a cup to one cup of water depending on how thin you would like the smoothie to be. Optional add-ins include two tablespoons of chia seeds (soak them in water first), oats, flaxseed, and matcha/ginger powder! Unfortunately mccormick discontinued my favorite matcha ginger powder, but you could totally still add them in individually.

[@briannastoohs8153]

Iris Patcher Also, if you’re interested, I’m a part of an ARFID support group on facebook!

[@natalielausten7246]

I'm so happy for you that you have found something you enjoy. Trying more fruit is the 1st step for me I only eat strawberries but not on a daily basis. Any fruit recommendations?

[@briannastoohs8153]

@@natalielausten7246 Aw I forgot I posted this comment 2 years ago. It makes me feel so good to see the progress I've made since then. I love strawberries, pineapple, and sometimes grapes. Still not 100% with the texture, but it's tolerable. I tried chocolate covered strawberries for the first time last year and LOVED them. Oh I also love clementines! I ate one every single day for like 2 weeks straight and that really helped; consistency is KEY I've learned. I also made a "Goal Foods" spreadsheet where I ranked every food I wanted to eat on a scale of A to D (and F for the foods I felt incredibly disgusted even thinking about eating). Instead of having a broad goal like "I want to eat strawberries without gagging" I now think of goals like, "I want to take broccoli from a C food to a B food." It also helps to clearly define what each letter means for you. I hope this helps!

[@TheBigBoopy]

Out of all my years of being alive, today the first day that i found out the name for the disorder i have been dealing with all my life. And your video was my 1st "interaction" with someone like me and it feels so good to know that someone understands you. I will never forget what you've done for me today. Thank you!

[@natalielausten7246]

I just found out last night so I know how that feels like a light bulb just connected the dots

[@TheBigBoopy]

@@natalielausten7246 I'm here for you friend.

[@tooniesz8140]

omg same LMAO

[@TheBigBoopy]

@@tooniesz8140 Wow, 2 years really just flew by. Just know that it dies get easier once you have a name for it friend!

[@donnieboi6409]

I know this is old but I just want to say, this makes me feel less alone. You’re comment on thanksgiving is just so true... my mom once forced me to eat, I think a green bean, and I ended up throwing up. She thought I was being dramatic and then I found out this was a thing several years later. It hurt a lot to be constantly accused of picky eating when there’s just no control over what you can and can’t eat. It’s also just quite embarrassing and I hate eating with friends because of it.

[@berrienl.107]

I got diagnosed with ARFID today. I've had this since I was a kid, but it was only the past couple of years that I've admitted that I actually have a problem, and today, I got diagnosed, and was told that outpatient therapy is necessary and I might be a good candidate for inpatient care. I've always been really nervous with "getting help" because my issues have nothing to do with weight problems, and like you said, it's very different of a thing. That said, functionally, I'm anorexic! Just. Without the image issues.. I asked the specialist if ARFID is an uncommon thing they see, and they told me, "Not since we got a name for it!" Which made me feel better. I asked if I'd get in trouble if I couldn't finish my food at the clinic, and they told me no, there would be no negative consequences. No scolding, no punishment, no Making Me Do It Anyway... which thank god. I was in a different clinic for depression and they actually threatened me severely if I couldn't finish my food....

[@sofikirkham]

I'm going to the doctor tomorrow to get checked for it I hope everything goes well

[@nhilz]

"mcdonalds isn't real food, yeah i know thats why i eat it" if that ain't a fat mood

[@wyntrr_end]

Wow, that sounds really difficult to deal with. There are some foods most people like (burgers, seafood, pumpkin pie) that I just won't eat, but it's not to this degree. I can't even begin to imagine how you ever manage to get people to understand that it's something real, not just picky eating. Thank you so much for sharing! I've never heard of this before, and honestly it inspires me. You've had all this going on pretty much your whole life and yet you still go beyond average in your accomplishments!

[@MorganGale]

Aaaaa thank you so much!! I was really worried about sharing it, since I'm used to keeping it a secret and it feels really personal, but I'm happy that I was able to add a new perspective.

[@annabellawhite3001]

Thank you for making this. I also have ARFID. I’m 13 and I’ve had it for as long as I can remember. All I want is for other people to understand arfid and take it seriously. When I tell people about it and try to explain it they’re either not interested or think I’m joking. Thanks again for this and maybe it will help others understand, because that’s all I want😔

[@adamsz715]

I am a parent of a little girl who has ARFID which is secondary to ASD and ADHD. Hearing another person describe their experiences managing their ARFID is interesting because my daughter is the only person I know of with this specific disorder. It has been challenging and she has been hospitalized to help her regain weight several times. The comorbidities of ASD and ADHD have complicated her treatment so much as well. My wife and I are working extremely hard to educate ourselves and find new and important ways of supporting our daughter through all of this. Thanks for putting out such a great video summarizing your personal experience with this disorder. I can see so many similarities between you and my daughter and she is only just beginning her battle with ARFID.

[@oranplan1630]

Thank you SO much for mentioning that there are more types of ARFID than just texture/taste/appearance sensitivity. There are plenty of official sources who don't even talk about that, but as someone whose ARFID mainly takes the form of a severe aversion to eating, it can be so.. isolating. So I very much appreciate the mention of different versions. Because even if you don't have the same type I do, it makes me feel seen.

[@feelslikeheav3n]

If dairy products come within a two-foot radius of me, I'll feel tears start to form. If cheese ever touched me, I would cut that piece of skin off. If I can smell a strong odor off of someone else's plate, I'll wait until they're done eating before I start. I'm not exaggerating, this is what it's like to have such bad food anxiety.

[@theodandyace]

I've had very similar experiences although I've never been diagnosed. One of my largest issues is other people eating near me. It's horrible because while my family is fairly good about it they do tease me without understanding the depth of the situation. At one point I burst into tears in the middle of a family dinner (50 + people were present), and had a melt down in a restaurant after they put that goddamn pickle disguised as "garnish" on my plate. I cannot begin to explain the unreasonable paranoia I have for many types of food or the mortification that accompanies such eating habits. I'm glad I found your video, its comforting to know that I'm not alone in this issue

[@colleenschwenger7840]

I absolutely loved this. My daughter has had this since she was a baby. You brought tears to my eyes. We finally have an ANSWER. I cannot thank you enough for sharing your experience.

[@natalielausten7246]

I also have ARFID since I was 9 months old and it has been hard on my parents as well. They thought like many other people that it was just picky eating and that I would grow out of it. They tried to help me and I got OT but I never wanted to try new foods. I get so frustrated because I didn't choose to have ARFID. I want to be able to eat "normal" like everyone else but for some reason I just cant :((

[@padawanlence7039]

Until recently, people always just thought I was a picky eater. They always told me that I should just eat the food and that I'd grow out of it. But I'm almost 18 and my diet everyday rarely strays from plain pasta and cheese. I've tried so hard to just eat a wider variety of food, but I can't get myself to. And on top of that, I'm never hungry, so I only ever eat when someone reminds me to. I don't know why I'm this way. I like you, when I've gone to a Summer Camp and brought my own cooler. Everyone always thought I was super weird. So, the years after, when I went, I refused to take the cooler and just starved myself for the week. Your video made me cry so hard. I haven't related to anything so well before. I hope one day you'll be able to overcome this order!

[@spaceyqueeny2042]

This is really informative! I didn't even know that this was a thing, it's really enlightening.

[@rachelostudios8555]

i agree

[@MorganGale]

I'm glad I was able to bring some awareness to it!

[@paigemicah7062]

I had to go to an eating disorder clinic for 3 months and they just didn't understand and I didn't think anyone else understood what ARFID was.

[@ButterflyColors]

When I was younger, to deal with the anxiety and embarrassment that comes with this disorder, I liked to think of myself as some kind of government experiment. Like the gov gave me super powers but as a result they took away my gluttony. And that there’s other kids out that that have powers but they lost one of the 7 deadly sins, and that one day we would all meet each other and form some sort of super squad idk

[@flavies]

Hi! I'm a little late but I just stumbled upon your video and honestly? Thank you. I relate to all of your experiences so much. For me, it also started like, overnight when I was really little, maybe one? And then, growing up, I fought with my parents (especially my dad) a lot about food as they didn't really understand what was going on. Every meal was a struggle as I knew I would be sitting in front of my plate until I ate it (which never happened, I gagged everytime). Anyway, when I was in 6th grade I think, I went on a school trip for a week and I had brought my own food. The teachers would make me it half an hour before everybody else and I remember feeling very alone. Seeing you, and other people, have similar experiences, help a lot. To these days, as a teenager, I still don't eat a lot (my diet basically only consists of bread, french fries, breaded cutlets, and lots of biscuits & sugary stuff) and I don't like pizzas, pasta, McDonalds food, mac & cheese, or whatever food everyone usually likes, but it's really comforting to see I'm not alone. Thank you for sharing all of this. Sincerely, Flavie

[@Grace-mc8ul]

Did you go to ERC? Holy shit I have Arfid too and ED treatment is so hard because no where really offers help for ARFID. I haven't recovered either fully but I heard stories where people don't have to live their whole lives with it and recover which sounds amazing. For a while I was labeled with anorexia because I had depression but it wasn't until last year in a PHP they realized it was arfid. To this day my parents don't recognize it really as a disability and it's hard explaining to other people hey I literally would rather starve then eat. This video was so nice I relate with the hiding food and all of that. My mom one time took a peach I threw away and tried making me eat it and I just cried so hard and to this day I get like vivid flashbacks to that? Because the worst part about arfid is that emotional stuff connects to it as well and it's just so hard to explain to people. I remember in 6th grade camp I also just made all these peanut butter sandwiches bc I didn't like the camp food that was being served and I was lucky enough to find a station for pb&j

[@fish5666]

I can hardly express on how happy I am that you're talking about it and I can so relate to what you're saying especially with the "I'm not hungry" and the fact when I'm alone and in charge eating is a lot "easier ".

[@calmestgames1352]

I just found out about this disorder and when you said bread and cheese I lost my mind. Why did my doctor never suggest this before.

[@chrissmothers3636]

There was no identification for it until very recently. Ive lived with it since i can remember, im 28 now, and still dread Thanksgiving....

[@jessicalobello7124]

Thanks so much for sharing your experience. Both of my kids have ARFID. My son is 11, and he is ASD/ADHD, and most heavily affected by this disorder in terms of growth and nourishment (1st percentile, and falling into malnourishment). His sister, 9, is close to surpassing him in height and weight, and she is also pretty small for her age (30th percentile). I love how candid you are, you are able to describe what might be going through my son’s head so I can understand him better and get him better treatment. It has been suggested/threatened by his ARFID clinic that he will need to do inpatient care like what you did, and if he didn’t gain weight, they would put him on a feeding tube. I suspected that treatment in a facility would only make things worse, exactly how you described your experience. I’m not really sure what to do for him. I don’t try to force him to eat unless he hasn’t eaten a meal in several days and I notice his weight dropping. I HAVE to be forceful when he is so close to being hospitalized and he is getting sick from the lack of nutrients and calories. We have also been struggling with eating school lunch because the menu will change to “healthier” options for the general public, or they won’t allow sweets or allergens in the school. He used to only eat milky way bars, and they barred us from bringing those in because it wasn’t “real food.” It has been really hard. I have to make 3 separate meals for every single meal because my kids have no similar foods they are willing to eat, and height one will eat what my husband and I eat, and we can’t eat what they eat. Honestly, even hearing that with all the help and support you have had that you still struggle is helpful for me, because I can come to terms with this just being reality for many kids. They aren’t going to change or be forced to change, they just have to find ways to survive. It is not my fault and there isn’t really much any of us can do. I can relax a little…I was always thinking I wasn’t doing enough, or I was doing everything wrong. Maybe I just have to admit to myself that they need to be informed, but in control. Anyway, thank you for sharing. My kids don’t see anyone else on KZbin similar in age or diagnosis with ARFID, and they feel really alone. I’m tired of hearing adults and clinicians talk about it, I want to hear from real kids and young people so I can learn better. I just want to understand them and support them the best way I can. I don’t want them to get sick. I hope you are well, and I hope you keep us updated over time.

[@MorganGale]

Thank you for sharing this, you sound like a great parent. 💛 I haven't made videos in a long time, but I'm planning to make an update video eventually. We'll see. 😊

[@goinghaydenwire]

I didnt know about arfid until like 2 days ago and it makes so much sense for me right now. unfortunately mine is not easily trackable (I'll be okay with a food one day and then not okay the next) but it helps to know I'm not just being high maintenance or picky. thanks for talking about your experiences!

[@elli3352]

I feel you, I'm also randomly afraid of a food from one day to another (I'm afraid of allergic reactions, although I don't have any known allergies) what I've learned in behavior therapy is that you have to use positive reinforcements with every bite you make and hold on to the positive experiences you had with the food in the past, like "I ate the same pastry yesterday, I won't have any issue today, I never had any issues. Nothing will happen because nothing ever happend" I hope this helps you 💕

[@goinghaydenwire]

@@elli3352 thank you, I will absolutely start doing that!

[@joanneseeit2957]

In tears watching this. My son has suffered all his life with this. The bullying and family pressure is causing him to feel worse - we need more brave people like you to help people who feel this too.

[@arainalaster5933]

My husband has developed this disorder among other mental and physical conditions. I think that my daughter has also started to develop this disorder and it makes me feel very fearful and helpless not knowing how to help them. It is a 24/7 condition. Hearing your story and the different treatment you went through, and what helps you and what didn’t helps me feel like we can get through this. It takes little steps and each step is a victory! You are an amazing young lady and you will overcome even if it takes a lifetime! Don’t loose hope or be discouraged! Thank you for making this video!!

[@dagmarvanstrien]

I just reached out for help. I'm 23 and I avoid a lot of food, mainly vegetables and complicated recipes. I will have my first meeting with a psychologist in 3 weeks. This is my first time hearing someone else talking about something similar as I'm experiencing. Thank you for sharing. It makes me feel less weird.

[@jackiewilde575]

Stumbled across your video. Thank you! My 11-year old son has ARFID and hearing your experiences and thoughts helps me as a parent.

[@babupelomundo]

I live with this eating disorder since I was 4 or 5, I don’t remember. I can’t eat some foods because I don’t like the texture, when people tried to force me to eat I feel I’ll gonna puke. It’s many embarrassing go to restaurants or dinners who we get invited because I can’t eat rice and beans too. In Brazil, rice and beans are a national popular food. Everybody eats it, everybody likes it. People are like “why you can’t eat this? everybody eat is like… so easy!” This is frustrating. Great video, greetings from Brazil! :)

[@wommy6926]

My girlfriend stumbled across this video and immediately made me watch it. She said "holy shit this is literally you in every way". And she was right. Everything from the tags on clothes, lying about allergies, inability to eat most foods and the sudden change in diet from age two onwards rings true with me. I always just assumed that I had a form of autism and tried to deal with the mountain of shit people put on me at every meal time the best I could. Thank you so much for making this video, I always assumed that I was suffering alone and that nobody would ever understand what it is like to look at fruit and see what is essentially a paperweight that stinks after a week. Good luck on your journey, I hope you progress and expand your food repertoire. There is hope though. I went from eating pot noodles for 10 years straight to having about 30 to 40 separate meals I can now eat. It is an uphill battle but progress will come. Slow as it may be. Also soup dumplings were the most unexpected pleasure in my life and they opened the door to a few more food groups.

[@StarNinja77]

'... what it is like to look at fruit and see what is essentially a paperweight that stinks after a week.' Well. I never bothered thinking about them that much but. Yep, that sums up the vast majority of fruits and veggies. And a ton of other stuff. I kind of really love this line. ;'D

[@ellencrank1739]

Thanks so much for this, Morgan. I am a teacher of students with disabilities, and your maturity, experience and honesty has given me some really helpful insights as I work with families. Bless you!

[@DanielSanchez-xr1kh]

I sometimes think about how lucky we are to live in the modern WITH ARFID. like imagine just how fucked we'd all be in the far past when there wasn't nearly enough options for us. we'd probably be dead tbh. Damn....well then. Anyways! loved the video! and thanks!

[@Alexandra-ek6pi]

Your video was so helpful! My teacher gave us the link to your video for our class on Eating Disorders in Psychology, just so you know how appreciated and valued your content is, even by professionals! Hope you are well. All the best!

[@MorganGale]

Ahhh, that makes me so happy!! Thank you for telling me! 💖

[@Alexandra-ek6pi]

@@MorganGale :-) Gladly! Thank you for sharing! Openess and a healthy attitude towards all aspects of mental health are really to be encouraged. Hope to see this aspect improve over the years worldwide. All the best!

[@natalielausten7246]

I just found out I had ARFID last night :((( I have been having this problem ever since I was around 9 months old and now I'm 18. It is definitely emotional hard for me because all I want to do is fit in with everyone else and be able to talk about food with them. I don't like to tell people unless it's necessary because it's embarrassing and all they end up doing is "integrating" me. Learning that this is a disorder was a wake-up call for me realizing I need to at least make some effort to change. But I also feel the comfort that I know now that I'm not alone and I found this wonderful community of ARFID people.

[@trashfireididd]

i grew up with this and grew up having people asking and bullying me saying i was anorexic or bulimic & therapists saying the same and i continued for years telling them i just had no appetite so i’ve been misdiagnosed my whole life so it’s nice seeing this, seeing i’m not alone. i’m almost 25 now weighing 89 pounds & want nothing more than to recover!!!!! thank you

[@shan3910]

Wow thank you so much. My 4 year old little boy has this disorder and you've just enabled his mom to understand him better and how best I can support him. You are more of a success than you realise

[@songbirdlyricz]

Thank you for sharing this and putting this video out there. I got introduced to the term “ARFID” through tiktok compilations. Not terrible, but very confusing! I’ve been trying to figure out my own symptoms (getting good professional help is difficult where I live), but it’s videos like this that give me a much clearer idea of specific disorders and how closely I relate to them or don’t.

[@sarat.1744]

As a mom to a baby diagnosed with food aversion, it really is hard, not just to him but to us parents and caretakers...to see your child starve him/herself, as a parent, is heartbreaking to say the least. It started when he was 10months old here so very early. No one knows for sure why and it doesn't seem to be related to sensory issues (he doesn't mind putting things in his mouth or touching different textures for instance) but more like trauma related (severe reflux from birth related to a cow milk protein allergy + choking after he threw up while sleeping). Thank you for talking about this issue and bringing it to light.

[@andreseduardoperezrangel8055]

You are describing basically my whole life, but without cheese in my safe-food list😂. I started eating more stuff after a musical camp in which I started to literally drink a shit ton of water as I was cheewing the food, in order to not feel the staste as much, just for survival reasons ( I still do it, but with gradually less water ). It has allow me to eat more things that I cant literally tolerate due to taste or texture. As an ARFID, I would recommend you to do this at least when you are trying something new, it helps me reduce the stress from thinking what would happen if what Im eating turns out to be gross ( its easier to just swalloe out and nt leave the taste in your mouth. For non-arfids readkng this, this is the level of the panic that comes to me when the taste of something turns out to be very bad). I absolutely understand what you are going for, and I send you a lot of support.

[@travischooter]

36 years old male and I just cried a little lol. I've been dealing with this my whole life its horrible

[@anniehays219]

Found your channel through ash! I have had a very similar experience to what you described. I am a 14 year old Australian and I have been refused by every treatment programs. I have tried graded exposure but it has proven to be extremely difficult without professional help. I am currently being assessed for autism (high functioning) which might explain my sensory difficulties. I had lost all hope. This video has helped me to see that I am not alone in this situation.

[@UIAL570]

Thank you so much for making this! This is such an unknown disorder! I had never even heard of it! My therapist has recently said she suspects I may have ARFID. It came on all of a sudden after a horribly traumatic event and I had no longer had interest in eating anymore. I went three days with only drinking one Frappuccino before I realized I hadn’t actually consumed any food.

[@watchbeccaplan]

my child was just diagnosed with this. thank you so much for sharing your story!

[@kaissoupstore7647]

I have arfid, as well as ocd, spd, and panic disorder (all are genetic in my family). Last year I was put in the hospital because my weight was so low and fortunately I'm better (I'm still recovering lmao) but it's good to see that people can relate to my disorder. I mean, it's not a good thing to have the disorder, but it's nice to see someone understand if you know what i mean ????

[@MorganGale]

Yeah I know what you mean! For the longest time I thought it was just a me thing, I didn't know that it was a disorder that other people could get. It was a huge relief to find out.

[@saxpoobielex7769]

My child was just diagnosed to with this she is 4. She also has a speech delay. THANKYOU for being her voice and telling what she could be going through!

[@jillymcg7931]

I just wanted to add that I find it very strange that most doctors and psychologists are 'blissfully unaware' of this condition. In fact I have been 'teaching' them and referring them all to your video. Knowledge is power. I now feel empowered.

[@YouHaveAnApeHead]

I feel so much with this video, I was diagnosed a few months ago and have been struggling with it since I was two it's just every doctor I've been too has completely neglected me. So glad I have a diagnosis as now I can start treatment and it's amazing to find someone who I can relate so much too. Stay strong.

[@mmaanda100]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I also have this eating disorder and hav had it since I was born. I'm from Sweden and we haven't come so far in research when it comes to ARFID, so I haven't received any help. Am 19 now and I have been learning myself "to eat". Now that I have watched your video I'm so happy to know that I'm not alone to be like this, because I have always believed that I am. (Tbh, I actually cried during the video, just because I got it confirmed that i'm not alone)

[@karawoodson7307]

Amanda Norström right there with you! You are not alone.

[@mummy8256]

Thank you Morgan for posting this video. My daughter who is almost 11 has just recently been diagnosed with ARFID. However unlike you my daughter is not eating or drinking anything. She has ASD, ADHD and Anxiety as well as TSC. We believe her issues arose due to some loose teeth she had. Prior to this she ate just fine. She is now being fed via nasal gastric tube and we are awaiting outpatient therapy for her after spending 17 days in hospital. Hearing your point of view on this has been helpful as a parent. I wish you all the best and hope that you do overcome this one day.

[@gourmetanxiety3956]

I always come back to this video when I have panic attacks due to food or thoughts of my issues with food. Thank you for making me feel less alone. I don’t know if I have arfid because I talked to my doctor and they weren’t familiar with the disorder but I do know that I have a lot of the same experiences you talked about. Just thanks for making me feel like I’m not alone in this

[@beauxpearl]

Literally everything you said I felt. I started hating food at two years old and it spiraled down. My parents would make me food and would say “eat this or you can’t go to bed” and I would fall asleep at the table. I always don’t talk about what I eat because I’m so scared what others would say. I always bring my own food to any and everything and would always get looks because no one understood why I wouldn’t eat the pizza provided at parties. It is so nice to know that others have experienced the same and I’m so glad that I was diagnosed finally. Every time I went to the doctor before I was told to just try foods and just keep trying. It took 18 years for someone to finally understand that I had an eating problem and I wasn’t just being stubborn. Thank you for making this video. It’s really cool to see that someone else has been through similar things.

[@chelsiegeib5022]

I enjoyed your video:) ..And like the person you mentioned in the beginning of it - you’ve helped me understand myself some more.. every little bit helps:) Take care and good luck with everything in your future:)

[@chop_val]

that thing about thanksgiving got me. it took me until today to start researching when my family made fun of me when we went out to eat because i didnt want anything off the menu. i asked my mom if i could just get a salad and she pulled me aside and asked if i was anorexic. my sister later confronted me saying how she has noticed how poorly i have been eating (she is studying to become a doctor and recently took courses involving eating disorders) im really glad that i found your video because although i have not been diagnosed with anything, it is good knowing there are people out there who struggle to eat

[@chop_val]

i forgot to mention that i have always been a “picky eater” but i obviously have just never grown out of it or whatever

[@GabiRodgers97]

i literally avoid dating bc i dont want to explain why i eat like a 5 year old. the only way i'd date is if i dated someone who also had arfid

[@MorganGale]

Gabi Rodgers There are many people who do understand and won’t make fun of you, even though it can take some time to find them. 💛 Don’t let anyone pressure you into dating, but if you do decide to date, it’s definitely not hopeless even if they don’t have arfid.

[@keyaunna.]

i have arfid and autism and i have the most amazing partner who’s understanding. i try things with him for exposure therapy all the time. i hope you can find someone like that :)

[@emilyvbr1878]

I'm crying while watching this and reading the comments. I hated myself so bad for my "picky eating habits" but seeing how many people go through this too..... I really thought I was alone but now I know I'm not. I'm sorry for your guys' struggles but I'm so glad I'm not alone

[@BlinkyLass]

I have ARFID too, and your experiences largely mirror mine. I was like you throughout early childhood, malnourished and really underweight, and my parents tried the tough-love approach and tried to wear me down by not feeding me for three days, and they broke first. But a major difference with me is that I developed a binge eating disorder in addition. My diet remains extremely limited, but I chow down on excessive amounts of safe foods. I became overweight instead of deathly underweight. At some point, this developed into bulimia. I've never had therapy for my eating disorders, in part because I grew up in a different time in a place where awareness of such things was nonexistent. I spent most of my life not knowing what it was that I had. It's nice to know that a new generation is growing up with more of the help and recognition they deserve.

[@lovingyou1993]

Thank you for spreading awareness about this disorder. I myself also deal with arfid and am now at a point that I've been able to get some help from a therapist. It feels lonely a lot of times because not many people have this, let alone understand what it is you are dealing with. This made me feel not so alone. Thanks again for your video. Lots of love and support to you ❤️

[@iNeedMyCoffeeBro]

Hello! I am 25. I have always been an intensely picky eater my entire life and have always been made fun of for it. I am the only one in my family who is under 150(currently i weigh 108). Because of that I have always struggled with how small I am compared to others. And it doesn't help how people are always commenting on that aspect of me. All my life i just thought I was weird because i didn't like all of the foods that everyone else liked. When i was a child when my mom would make chicken or steak i would pretend to chew it when she would be in the room, but then hide it in a napkin that I had hidden under my leg when she would walk away. I have always had a very restrictive diet, and now i know why. Thank you for talking about this more in depth, because i haven't found much about this yet.

[@louise5984]

Hi Morgan and everyone who suffers from ARFID. I truly feel your pain, I don't want to be to negative but as a child growing up i was a very fussy eater and drove my parents mad who responded with punishment I got worse and worse until I couldn't eat hardly anything. I'm now just past 50 years old and only just found this name for my eating disorder. I can only rarely eat solid food so I live off Aymes nurishment milk shake drinks I buy off eBay and oddly I can sometimes eat a big mac without the greenery also. I don't see a way to get over how ill normal food makes me. I don't expect I will ever be cured of this non sleeping nightmare. But I live in hope. Love and luck to all from Welsh Louise.

[@sorasart]

Hi I only accidentally stumbled across this video just now, but I have ARFID too - I'm part of a facebook group that's linked to Felix (don't know if you know who he is but he's amazing at helping people with this), it was really nice to watch your video and hear your take on it, it's comforting hearing someone else talk about how difficult it is. It sucks but we just take baby steps and keep going :) hopefully you'll get your happy recovery story one day!

[@sorasart]

Never mind I just checked the link to the support group and I'm already in it 😂 but regardless I'm glad I found this, more of us need to speak up about this!

[@mianethawayyy2877]

Thanks for that plug on tumblr omg thank you so much (also for the rest of the video obviously)

[@lillianallen2027]

i've never been diagnosed and i know that I've grown to like many foods but there are still some that i can't accept and that combination of liking a lot of things but being physically disgusted with certain other foods just makes it so much easier for people to say it's not a problem. i've grown up like you, hiding food, being stuck at the table for hours because i wasn't allowed to leave unless i ate. i'm so sick of feeling guilt whenever i'm around food because i'm being "ungrateful", i'm sick of hearing people joke about how i only ate five things as a kid and "was a real handful" when eating anything else hurt so much. i really appreciate this video and i hope you've been on the road to success since this was uploaded, i'm trying to be.

[@nicolesnook8426]

Dang now I’m crying. This hit me on a whole other level. I have SUCH a hard time trying new foods and I just don’t know why. I hate going to social events and dating sucks bc they just never understand. Hell sometimes my friends and family don’t understand and just push me too far. I’ve been trying to go to therapy for it but my parents just won’t call and I don’t understand why. I hope you get better and I wish you luck.

[@kellyclark4587]

Hi there. I just wanted to say thank you for putting this video up. I also struggle with it, and have for my whole life (I'm almost 20...) it's really difficult to try and explain to other people how I feel and what is in my head, so I wrote a post on Instagram linking your video, I hope that's alright. It's really lovely to know that I'm not alone and I'm not the only one, which it often feels that way. Anyways, stay strong and thanks again. I wish you the best of luck on your journey. 💗

[@kellyclark4587]

instagram.com/p/Bd6QN1dgQfZ/ If you wanted to see my post 😊

[@kaleeford5529]

When you said how socks bother you I cried I’ve never heard someone else having an issue like this thank you ,it takes me like 15 minutes just to put my socks and shoes on because of how uncomfortable it is ,my family thinks I’m crazy and that I’m just a picky eater but this makes so much sense and makes me feel less strange in a way thank you for making this video :)

[@dannyclayton3732]

You just completely helped me understand my opinions on certain kinds of foods. I only ever eat simple things, and my family will joke about if restaurants have an option for me. You described the mcdonalds thing perfectly. Recently my mom was super flattered that I even tried something new she made, even though I didn't like it all. I'm stunned honestly.

[@Kitty-Kins]

I'm in tears right now! I'm not kidding you, this is like listening to myself talk! A friend just send this to me because I have the exact same symptoms! I've had this struggle for 25 years (and counting) and I always felt like I was the only one because nobody has heard of it or could help me with it! Giving up hope I just started to "live with it", not thinking anybody could help me I stopped looking. That was until an unfortunate event made go to a clinic, there I told them my symptoms but the psychologists there didn't know what it was either. After 2 months of therapy and a bit of a breakthrough I thought I was healed, however that progress is limited and takes a veeeery long time to get "used" to a flavor or texture. Though the clinic helped me get over the fear of trying anything new (it was like a phobia, scared I was going to throw up) they didn't really test me properly. I have depression and anxiety attacks because of this disorder and not knowing what this was made it all the more frustrating but now thanks to you I have hope! Thank you so very very very much! You have no idea how much this video means to me!

[@Kruspe12]

I had almost the exact same experience as you. Mine started at 2. I had to bring my own food everywhere. I remember having a crying meltdown at my friends house because i was so hungry but didnt have my safe foods. For me I didn't even start to try to get over it until I was 22. I suffered for so long and didn't go to therapy. I also have the sensory thing like you. I am so sensitive to textures. Thank you so much for making this video. I am so relieved to know I am not the only one who suffered. I still struggle but my diet is so much better now and I did it on my own. It is a lifelong struggle and people don't understand. I am actually going to show this video to my mum so she can understand how it was for me. Thank you again xo don't give up but do things at a pace that is comfortable for you. It is the only way you will find any success

[@alessiamartucci6186]

Thank you so much for this, I literally found out about this disorder today and it's so nice to finally be understood! I'm 19 and I've been dealing with this since forever, no one took this seriously (me included), but now that I know that I'm not alone, I'm so relieved!

[@gldngurl4364]

Thank you Morgan. I am 55 years old and I have been dealing with this disorder all my life. I thought nobody eats like me. I havent been diagnosed but I have cant digest anything green or textured. Its a struggle. I hate ordering food in front of people at a restaurant. I have to piece a menu together. I get anxiety when i have to explain. Thank you for your videos. I usually say Im allergic too.

[@katydoench5008]

I have the same disorder. I suggest for smoothies (which I still have trouble with) to get a very very good blender. I bought a blentech, it annihilates any little bits that you put in it. You can put a ton of fruit in it and then a few leaves of spinach or something and you won't even know it's there. It's still really hard for me though because I just don't really like the flavor of smoothies. It's like I have to force myself to eat them.

[@tsukiide9213]

I agree with this, It feels so much better drinking than eating but its not always easy because of the flavor so I add a bit of condensed milk to make it more creamier.

[@jouansmothers7873]

I just started to do this. Smoothies have helped me immensely.

[@gwillis01]

Perhaps if you put more sweet fruits in the smoothie you would enjoy them more. try crushed blueberries or strawberries ( one at a time so it is not overwhelming)

[@Rachael813]

I was misdiagnosed with anorexia before ARFID was put into the DSM, and it was so frustrating to explain to people that it's not that I don't want to eat. I simply can't. Ensure shakes work for me because they don't taste anything like food. I recommend them. I've worked hard to learn how to eat more than a few specific meals and as a 30 year old woman it is embarrassing to navigate in social situations. Thank you so much for being brave enough to talk about this. Everything you've explained sounds like my life.

[@alyssa.n.hudson164]

I just graduated with my nursing license , so I have a tendency to try to self diagnose and I swear my loved ones think I'm crazy because of it . But for all of my guesses so far (chronic pain in four different areas), I've been confirmed as correct by my doctors (and that's NOT counting the mental disorders.. just physical) . My life has been MISERABLE because of my pain , and it has been made ten times worse ever since my appetite changed . Suddenly , I was losing weight and eating nothing. I thought it was because I had been living on my own for two years now, and I had just lost time to cook for myself , so I would eat tiny things on the go (but never more than half) until I realized how serious it was. Every single day that I realized I was so weak I couldn't work, I would say that it seems that I am anorexic even though I am perfectly fine with my body.... Like "just anorexia without the nervosa".... I just found this tonight and on Google and I have to say I'm so relieved .. I've been thinking about working with a dietician .. I have a lot of other needs for my body such as a need for alkaline pH because I have interstitial cystitis so this eating disorder worsens that and makes everything else harder ... Thank you for sharing your story you are amazing. This has changed me

[@annabellawhite3001]

Hey I'm twelve and I have arfid too my case is very similar too yours with textures and colours. Thanks so much for making this video. It given me more information about it and it helps me feel like I'm not the only one and that I'm not alone in this.🙂

[@annakovacs246]

There is so much overlaps in our stories it's incredible. I only found out recently that this thing I was struggeling with my whole life actually has a name and it's really liberating to know that I'm not some freak of nature but it's an actual disorder. I never had any therapy for it, and honestly even though I want to go therapy so badly, cause I'm so fed up with this situation, I am almost terrified of it :/ .

[@aliciabratton3832]

Thank you, Morgan. My little boy has just been diagnosed, after being a "problem feeder/extreme picky eater" for years. He's 10 and I'm educating myself as much as I can. Thank you.

[@dreamthief9201]

All my life the doctor's said I'd grow out of this but years after years of them saying that I knew it wasn't true unless I got help. Everyone shrugged it off but finally my aunt has a friend who deals with such problems and already knew what I was dealing with. Now I'm in therapy and am doing much better and have had lots of progression compared to before, I'm not healed and this issue hasn't been erased but I've come a far way. I think this problem should be more widely reconised because I'm sick of being called anorexic, it truly hurts.

[@sarahcreates3411]

Thank you. I can not thank you enough. ARFID is often forgotten and not enough people know what it even is. Most people when you say “Eating Disorder” immediately jump to Anorexia and other well known eating disorders and everybody assumes that all eating disorders are linked to body image. They’re not. I’ve had ARFID for the majority of my life and I don’t have it quite as bad as I used to but watching videos like this is so comforting to see other people who know what it’s like. And like you said it’s not just as simple as “just eat it it’s all in your head.” Because it’s kind of not in a way. Your not imagining the food, it actually is right here In front of you but when it triggers for me there’s just a block in my mind and it’s impossible to get through. And not many people actually understand that it is a real issue for some people. So for everything, thank you.

[@ashleyl3699]

it gets a lot easier to live with once you're an adult and have complete control over your food and your life. when i was a child and teenager this disorder hugely impacted my life and caused me constant stress and anxiety. now i barely even remember i have an eating disorder, it just doesn't affect my life all that much anymore, other than that i spend extra money each month on vitamins that i wouldn't have to buy my diet wasn't so small. one thing that that helped me increase my tolerance to vegetables was i started vegetable gardening. this just mentally "hyped" me up about them and now i can eat certain ones if they are cooked and mixed together with other things, although individually on their own i still will only eat potatoes and corn.

[@MorganGale]

This is so true in my experience as well! I'm still not there with the vegetables, but gardening has helped a lot, and being an adult makes it less of a spectacle.

[@lilas8719]

This makes me so happy that someone else is talking about this. I’ve had it my whole life and up until about a couple years ago I only had about 5-7 foods that I regularly ate for lunch and dinner. About a year ago I got a good therapist who’s helped me branch out and try lots of new foods, like sandwiches, apples, carrots, chicken strips, and lots of things that I hadn’t ate before. There still aren’t many places I can order food at but I’m certainly improving. My goal is to eat normally by college (I’m 14 so I have lots of time) wish me luck!

[@MARCYGIRL3]

Thank you for this video! My son is 13 and he eats 4 or 5 things. Everything you say is completely true!

[@theagarcia2227]

I have been struggling my whole life and I NEVER knew I had this!!! I don't have any support but this video really gave me a hug and told me I'm not alone.

[@cecilieknudsen6880]

Seriously, you are AMAZING! I have, myself, suffered from SED since I can remember - but I've actually not known that I suffered from SED before sometime in 2017! Everybody has always said "Oh Cecilie, she's just picky" or "It'll get better the older you get!". But guess what? Now I'm 22, soon to be 23, and it hasn't gotten better by itself! I think you're so brave for coming out with your disorder, especially given all the comments you'v'e been through your whole life! I haven't figured out how to get over my SED, but Im sooo tired of it, and I think thats why I found your channel and I'm so happy I found you honestly. I didn't know about the ARFID-tag on tumblr, and God I'm so happy that I found you haha!

[@MorganGale]

Hey everyone! I'm so glad that this video has been able to help so many people! If you'd like to hear more about my experience with this disorder, I just posted a new video about what it's like to be dismissed by doctors and peers; it might be relatable for many of you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mITEan94edp2as0

[@wm8666]

jammvlogs Thank you for this video. I’ve suffered from this my entire life. I’m 39 and my entire existence unfortunately evolves around this disorder. I have used the fake allergy excuse my entire life and avoided any social experiences that involve food. It’s hard but at this point I’m tired of trying to explain and change for the world. If I can live with this, I think my friends and loved ones should too. I can carry my own food and not have to catch hell for it! Hang in there sista!

[@sp00kzie2]

jammvlogs i have the same disorder , I eat only 7 FOODS meaning by only like nuggets and stuff people stare at me whenever i bring my own food on trips

[@evergreengalaxy1605]

I can’t believe it. I’m so happy that I know now. It’s not just I’m picky anymore. Thank you

[@Astrorenity]

Today I sat and watched this video and it's not the first time I've came across this kind of video about this disorder, I'm 27 and I can't believe the more I understand about this the more I can relate to it. For myself it began when I was 3 or so I've been told as I can't remember much of eating anything put in front of me. This disorder I would say is a disability in that it can cause issues for anyone dealing with it as my experience is low energy, low immune system, low weight and many other problems making life more difficult. On top of mental health problems it's difficult daily life and it hurts when others don't understand as well as myself what was wrong but this video has helped, thank you very much and hopefully I can truly find out if I have ARFID but dealing with it will be the real challenge. Tho I don't know if I want to chance what I eat or add anything new

[@mollyzatlukal8009]

I am a teen and I have been suffering from this my entire life. I wouldn’t eat baby food as a baby, and now I only eat 2 solid foods, and the rest liquid. I pretty much survive on protein shakes which luckily gives me proper nutrients. I tried therapy but all it did was stress me out. I keep trying new foods but can’t manage to get it down my throat. Unlike you mine is only with food and like crumbs I get super OCD. I can relate to you in the fact that I always say that it’s allergies because one time I told someone and it got out to some people who gave me a hard time. If anyone has any suggestions to deal with it I’d really appreciate it because this disorder makes me so anxious.

[@marilynaruca]

Thank you so much for having the courage to talk about this. I believe my son may have ARFID. I think I had it...I know my dad had it...Take care of yourself. Your confidence in talking about it makes me feel like there's hope.,🌼♥️♥️♥️🌼🌼🌼