Tucson Chapter: Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder and Binge Eating Disorder
6 May @ 8:30 am – 11:30 am
In our constantly evolving field of work, we are continuously expanding our knowledge and gaining insight into how we can better meet the needs of our patients. This is particularly salient in the treatment of patients with co-occurring Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED). Our understanding of both disorders continues to grow and the ways that they are interconnected has continued to become clearer. Patients with this diagnostic combination benefit from specialized treatment approaches that honor their unique needs and experiences.
In this presentation, we will delve into the nuances of symptomology and treatment for patients with co-occurring BED and ADHD. We will explore how the struggles with executive functioning specific to patients with ADHD can be part of a cycle of low self-esteem, learned helplessness, poor self-care, and agitation/angst, that further complicates co-occurring BED. We will also learn more about the commonalities of both conditions, including similarities in reward system functioning, executive functioning, shame pathway activation, as well as shared risk factors.
Ultimately, we will discuss how to address and treat both conditions simultaneously, by modifying treatment approaches accordingly. Participants will learn more how to employ eating disorder treatment approaches through a neurodivergent lens and also how to employ ADHD treatment approaches through an eating disorder lens.
