The relation between symptoms of ADHD and symptoms of eating disorders in university students.

There is evidence to suggest an association between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders (EDs). As those with subclinical symptoms of ADHD or ED often experience impairment, this cross-sectional study examined the relationship between ADHD symptoms and ED symptoms in a predominately subclinical undergraduate population. Students (n = 133; 80% female) completed questionnaires measuring ADHD and ED symptomatology. The relation between overall ADHD symptoms and ED symptoms was examined using linear regression; findings indicated that higher ADHD symptoms significantly predicted higher ED symptoms. When symptoms of both disorders were further delineated, inattentive ADHD symptoms consistently predicted higher ED symptoms (bulimia, body dissatisfaction, and drive for thinness). A number of mechanisms may explain the association between ADHD and ED symptoms, including shared executive function deficits, poor emotion regulation, and mood challenges. These mechanisms may have clinical relevance in ADHD and ED treatment and prevention efforts.

Feeding and eating problems in children and adolescents with autism: A scoping review.

LAY ABSTRACT: Feeding problems, such as picky eating and food avoidance, are common in youth with autism. Other, broader difficulties with feeding and eating (eating disorder symptoms such as restricting food intake or preoccupation with body shape or weight and insistence on specific food presentation) are also common in autistic individuals. Here, we describe the nature and extent of feeding and eating problems in youth with autism. We found no common characteristics (such as severity of autism symptoms) that best describe autistic youth who experience problems with feeding or eating. Almost all studies we reviewed focused on problems with feeding (selective or picky eating), and only a few studies focused on eating disorder symptoms (concern with weight, shape, and/or body image). However, some researchers reported that eating disorder symptoms may occur more often in autistic individuals compared to their peers without autism. Many studies used the terms "feeding" and "eating" problems interchangeably, but understanding the difference between these problems is important for researchers to be consistent, as well as for proper identification and treatment. We suggest future researchers use "eating problems" when behaviors involve preoccupation with food, eating, or body image, and "feeding problems" when this preoccupation is absent. We highlight the importance of understanding whether feeding or eating problems are separate from autism traits, and the role of caregivers and other adults in the child's treatment. Considerations for health-care providers to assist with diagnosis and treatment are also provided.

Suicidality Among Children and Youth With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review of Existing Risk Assessment Tools.

Individuals with autism are at heightened risk for experiencing suicidality compared to those without autism. Despite this, it is unknown what tools are used to assess suicide risk in research and clinical practice among children and youth with autism. This systematic review examined tools commonly used to measure suicidality in children and youth with and without autism spectrum disorder. Four databases were searched. We identified five tools (C-SSRS, PSS, SITBI, SIQ-JR, BSS) commonly used with youth in the general population; however, we did not identify any tools that were commonly used autistic children and youth. Results highlight the lack of available tools utilized to measure suicidality in autistic children and youth. We propose a framework to facilitate research to fill this gap.