WHEN FEEDING YOURSELF FEELS LIKE TOO MUCH

WHEN FEEDING YOURSELF FEELS LIKE TOO MUCH

There are days when feeding yourself feels less like one simple task and more like a long chain of decisions. You may need to notice hunger, stop what you are doing, decide what feels safe, check what is available, prepare it, cope with smells or textures, remember timings and then clear everything away. When your capacity is already low, that chain can feel impossible.

This supportive guide has been created for people who experience executive dysfunction, sensory differences, ARFID, ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, fatigue, chronic illness, grief or burnout. It explains why food preparation can become overwhelming without describing the person as lazy, difficult or lacking motivation.

Inside the guide you will find a red, amber and green capacity check; a no-thinking food formula; realistic no-cook and low-preparation food ideas; ways to reduce sensory demands; support suggestions for family and partners; and a printable difficult-day food plan. The emphasis is on finding the smallest safe and manageable route to nourishment rather than producing a perfect meal.

You are allowed to repeat safe foods, use a microwave, eat ingredients separately, choose ready-made food and ask another person to help. On the hardest days, accessible food is valuable food.

This resource provides general education and does not replace personalised medical or dietetic advice. Seek professional support if food restriction, weight loss, dehydration or physical symptoms are becoming a concern.

Space to Breathe Therapy
spacetobreathetherapy.co.uk

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