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Exploring recovery from anorexia in autistic adults: a qualitative study
Abigail McIntosh1, Rachael Hunter2
1Swansea University, Swansea, UK 2100515@swansea.ac.uk.
BMJ Open
|January 7, 2026
Summary
Autistic adults face unique challenges in anorexia nervosa (AN) recovery, including sensory sensitivities. Understanding these barriers is crucial for improving eating disorder (ED) services for autistic individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Eating disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Anorexia Nervosa (AN) comorbidity
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious eating disorder (ED) with complex recovery pathways.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can co-occur with EDs, presenting unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the barriers and facilitators impacting recovery from AN in adults diagnosed with ASD.
- To gain insights into the lived experiences of autistic adults during AN recovery.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing semi-structured interviews.
- 12 autistic adults who self-identified as recovered or recovering from AN participated.
- Interviews were conducted online via Zoom.
Main Results:
- Four primary themes emerged: Sensory Experiences, Recovery in Progress, Changing to Healthy Mindsets, and Engaging with Treatment.
- Autistic traits, including sensory sensitivities and interoception difficulties, significantly influenced the non-linear recovery process.
- Challenges related to the 'internal voice' and sensory processing impacted recovery progression.
Conclusions:
- Recovery from AN in autistic adults is complex and influenced by core autistic traits.
- Findings underscore the need for tailored support and increased autism awareness within eating disorder services.
- Further research is recommended to develop improved guidelines for treating co-occurring AN and ASD.
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