ADHD and Binge Eating: Unraveling the Connection
There is a high degree of overlap between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder, with an estimated 30% of patients with binge eating disorder also meeting the criteria for ADHD. The connection between the two conditions is complex and involves factors such as difficulties with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and reward processing. People with ADHD may have a reduced response to rewards in general but a heightened response to the reward of food, leading to self-medication through binge eating. Treatment options include stimulant medications like Vyvanse, which is FDA-approved for both ADHD and binge eating disorder, as well as other ADHD medications. However, finding the right treatment and dose can be challenging. Behavioral therapies can also be complicated for patients with ADHD, who often struggle with organization and structure. The overlap between ADHD and binge eating disorder is often overlooked, leading to an underserved population in need of tailored treatment approaches.