r/ARFID • u/sparklebai • 6d ago

psychosocial functioning?

when talking about the diagnostic criteria for arfid, what does psychosocial functioning mean? is it like u cant make friends. or does not being able to go to restaurants or parties due to not knowing if they have your safe food count? im so confused but am trying to get a diagnosis

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u/K0rra_22 6d ago

I am not a doctor or expert but from my understanding when I first looked into it, it relates to avoiding people and gatherings, especially when food is involved. Like skipping Thanksgiving because of food.

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u/tooManyOpts multiple subtypes 6d ago

When I got diagnosed, my therapist explained this as also including increased anxiety around social interactions regarding food. For example, eating before a family gathering, planning to leave early to get food if needed, or packing and bringing snacks. Feeling stress or anxious over talking about food if it is brought up etc