Eating Disorder Awareness Week 2024: Understanding ARFID with Laura Bourne

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Laura Bourne. Laura is a final year PhD student in the Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology at UCL. Laura is interested in selective eating behaviours and complex patterns of food refusal and in particular, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Laura is keen to spread awareness and increase understanding of ARFID, and through her research, hopes to contribute to the ARFID evidence-base to work towards effectively treating this disorder. 

Eating disorder awareness week is focusing on ARFID, and with that in mind, this week's episode focuses on:

  • Laura's research and interest in ARFID.
  • The diagnostic criteria, subtypes and consequences of ARFID.
  • The difference between ARFID and anorexia.
  • The difference between ARFID and fussy eating.
  • ARFID presentations in children, young people and adults.
  • The association of autism and ARFID.
  • The treatment available for ARFID and how to access support.

To find out more about Laura and her research, check out her UCL page here:  https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/68620-laura-bourne/publications.

Kindly note, that this episode delves into sensitive eating disorder topics. Remember to take care of yourself while listening, and always seek professional help if needed. This podcast is your bridge to insightful discussions, not a substitute for clinical guidance.

Recent Posts

Exploring Addiction & Eating Disorder Stigma & Support
By Hannah Hickinbotham June 9, 2025
In this blog post, we explore addiction and eating disorder stigma and why this support matters beyond Men’s Mental Health Week.
Using Family-Based Therapy to Support Eating Disorder Recovery
By Hannah Hickinbotham May 26, 2025
Family-based therapy empowers families to support children and teens in eating disorder recovery. Learn how it works and why it’s effective.
Treatment Resistant or Systemic Failure? Reframing “Untreatable” Eating Disorders
By Hannah Hickinbotham May 19, 2025
In this blog, we explore whether eating disorders are truly untreatable or if treatment models need to evolve. Featuring insights from Dr. Anita Federici and recent research on "terminal anorexia."
The Power of Community in Eating Disorder Recovery for Midlife Women
By Hannah Hickinbotham May 12, 2025
Discover how community can transform eating disorder recovery for midlife women. Learn why connection, support, and shared experiences make healing possible.
Navigating Menopause and Cultivating Positive Body Image
By Hannah Hickinbotham May 5, 2025
Researcher Sophie shares how body appreciation can support mental health and quality of life during menopause. Learn about the science and practical takeaways.
Supporting Disordered Eating & RED-S in Athletes
By Hannah Hickinbotham April 21, 2025
Understanding disordered eating in athletes, RED-S, and how sports culture normalises under-fuelling with an eating disorder dietitian.
Show More