Are Eating Disorders More Common in Girls with ADHD?

PostedSeptember 24, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 29, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Eating disorders ADHD girls are more common than in the general population, as girls with ADHD are more likely to develop unhealthy relationships with food. The impulsivity associated with ADHD can contribute to disordered eating patterns, such as binge eating, as girls may struggle to regulate their eating habits and emotional responses. Additionally, the challenges of managing ADHD symptoms, such as emotional dysregulation, can increase the risk of turning to food for comfort or control.

Girls with ADHD often face body image issues, and body image concerns can be exacerbated by the impulsivity and low self-esteem commonly associated with the condition. This can lead to restrictive behaviours, where girls try to control their food intake as a way to cope with feelings of inadequacy or stress. The pressure of managing ADHD symptoms alongside societal expectations can make it difficult for these girls to maintain a healthy balance.

Common Symptoms

Impulsivity and Binge Eating

Eating disorders ADHD girls are often linked to impulsive behaviour. These girls may engage in binge eating, eating large quantities of food in a short period of time, without being able to control their impulses.

Body Image and Restrictive Behaviours

Girls with ADHD are more vulnerable to developing restrictive behaviours around food due to concerns about their body image. The desire to gain control over their bodies can manifest in extreme dieting or restrictive eating patterns.

Recognising the connection between eating disorders ADHD girls and impulsivity, as well as addressing underlying emotional struggles, is crucial for providing effective support. Early intervention can help mitigate the development of disordered eating and support a healthier relationship with food.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Girls and women with ADHD.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.