Is it an ED if it's because of medication
Heyy, my name's Coco and I'm 17.
So, I have ADHD & autism and the only way I can get through my day is by taking my meds. However, I have a huge loss of appetite as a side effect, to the point that I skip meals regularly because I simply don't feel hungry.
It's immensely frustrating. I eat lunch at school and because of the temperatures and bad management from the staff, the only place where stuwents can eat is in an overcrowded cafeteria with a lot of noise and movement. I can't eat there. I'm not hungry anyway, I already feel full. I don't want to eat, it makes me feel sick. Why should I eat if I don't feel the need to?
My friends, especially my best friend, are worried about me. They're "encouraging" me to eat, but it feels more like pressuring than anything and it makes me annoyed or angry with them, to a point where it sometimes strains our friendship.
Of course, when I'm thinking about it, I'm the stupid one. Skipping meals is unhealthy, I lost weight in very little time, I changed bra and pants size, I should get my life and eating habits back under control before it's too late. The thing is I can't. I'm forcing myself to eat 3 meals a day when I'm at home, I don't wanna force myself in an environment that is already challenging, it's not gonna end well, I can feel it.
Today was the first day of school after one week of holidays. I didn't eat lunch. I felt this fuzzy feeling in the afternoon, the one where you know that your blood levels are too low for proper functioning. After my classes were over, I hung out with my friends and ate chips, I wasn't forcing myself. When I came home, I forced myself to throw upa little to make space for dinner.
The thing that worries me is that I don't want to eat at all. I'm tempted to skip meals even when I'm unmedicated. I'm really confused, me skipping meals has nothing to do with my weight or body image, I simply do not want to eat.
If anyone knows what it is or how to help, I'd greatly appreciate your advice.
In the meantime, have a nice day/night anf don't forgeg to drink water 🩵
@artisticCoconut81194 From what I understand not all eating disorders are related to body image, but eating can be disordered for a number of reasons, it's not always an eating disorder. Even if I was a professional (which I am very much not) we cannot diagnose as members (or listeners) and it would likely be really difficult to do so over a forum.
Have you brought up the eating issues with the medical professionals you do see? Sometimes a change in the timing of a medication or something like that can help. Seeing a dietician may also be beneficial.
I have had periods in my life where I had difficulties eating because of health issues. I liked meal replacement drinks or smoothies, I found it easier to get a drink down rather than having to chew food. If you try that out, try to get something that has a fair bit of micronutrients plus protein, not one that has a lot of refined sugar added.
Heyy, thank you for answering.
Unfortunately, I haven't been able to tell my doctor about this, changing the dosage does bring a bit of appetite back but it's not enough for me to get through my day, I get too overstimulated and I can't focus anymore. The timing is a major problem since the meds are still working at lunchtime when I have to eat, but I make it up with a big breakfast or dinner most of the time.
Meal replacement drinks sound good, I'll try to find some in my area. Drinking is not as hard as eating, so I'll try it out. Thank you so much 💜