ARFID Diagnostic Screener

Screening assessment based on DSM-5 criteria

⏱️ 8 minutes Difficulty: Moderate (4/10)

Important: This is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A positive screen does not constitute a diagnosis. Consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation.

ARFID Diagnostic Screener

⏱️ Takes approximately 8 minutes

Question 1 of 10

What is ARFID?

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a feeding and eating disorder recognized in the DSM-5. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by body image concerns or weight loss goals. Instead, it involves persistent avoidance or restriction of food intake that leads to significant nutritional, weight, or functional problems.

Key Characteristics of ARFID

  • Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight - Not maintaining appropriate weight for age and height
  • Nutritional deficiencies - Missing essential nutrients due to limited food intake
  • Dependence on supplements - Requiring nutritional supplements or tube feeding
  • Interference with psychosocial functioning - Eating patterns significantly impact social, work, or school life

Common Subtypes

Sensory Sensitivity

Avoidance based primarily on sensory characteristics of food (texture, smell, appearance, taste). This is the most common subtype.

Fear of Aversive Consequences

Avoidance due to fear of choking, vomiting, allergic reactions, or other negative consequences. Often associated with a traumatic eating experience.

Lack of Interest

General lack of interest in eating or food, low appetite, or forgetting to eat. May be associated with other conditions like depression or ADHD.

About This Screener

This screener is based on DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ARFID. It assesses multiple domains including food restriction, nutritional impact, functional impairment, and exclusion criteria. A positive screen indicates that you may meet some criteria for ARFID, but it does not constitute a diagnosis.

Interpreting Your Score

Not (0-24): Low Risk

Your responses suggest low risk for ARFID. Your eating patterns, while they may include some preferences or restrictions, do not appear to meet diagnostic criteria for ARFID.

Mild (25-49): Mild Concerns

Your responses suggest some concerns that may warrant attention. Your eating patterns may be impacting your nutrition or social functioning to some degree. Consider discussing with a healthcare provider.

Moderate (50-74): Moderate Risk

Your responses suggest moderate risk for ARFID. Your eating patterns appear to be significantly impacting your nutrition, weight, or functioning. Professional evaluation is recommended.

High (75-100): High Risk

Your responses suggest high risk for ARFID. Your eating patterns appear to meet multiple diagnostic criteria. It is strongly recommended that you consult with a healthcare provider, registered dietitian, or mental health professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate professional help if:

  • You have experienced significant weight loss or cannot maintain a healthy weight
  • You have nutritional deficiencies (fatigue, dizziness, skin problems, hair loss)
  • Your eating patterns severely limit your food variety (fewer than 15-20 foods)
  • Your eating patterns significantly interfere with your social, work, or school life
  • You require nutritional supplements or tube feeding to meet your nutritional needs

ARFID is a treatable condition. Early intervention with a multidisciplinary team (physician, registered dietitian, feeding therapist, mental health professional) can lead to significant improvement.

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a diagnosis?

No, this is a screening tool only. A positive screen does not constitute a diagnosis. Only a qualified healthcare provider can diagnose ARFID after a comprehensive evaluation.

What's the difference between picky eating and ARFID?

Picky eating is common and typically doesn't cause significant problems. ARFID is a clinical disorder that causes significant nutritional, weight, or functional impairment. The key difference is the severity and impact on health and functioning.

Can ARFID be treated?

Yes, ARFID is treatable. Treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary approach including medical monitoring, nutritional support, feeding therapy, and sometimes mental health support. Early intervention is associated with better outcomes.