Supporting Someone with Pica
Compassion • Support • Recovery
Pica is the persistent eating of substances that are not normally considered food. It can involve paper, soil, chalk, clay, hair, fabric, paint, plaster and many other materials.
For families and carers, pica can be frightening because some substances carry risks such as poisoning, choking, infection, dental injury or intestinal blockage. But fear should not turn into shame.
This Support Hub guide looks beyond the behaviour and helps supporters understand the possible medical, nutritional, sensory and developmental reasons that may sit underneath it.
Inside:
• what pica is
• why it can happen
• nutritional deficiencies and medical assessment
• autism, developmental differences and sensory seeking
• supporting children, adults and schools
• safer environments without punishment
• a practical pica tracker
• poisoning, choking and blockage risks
• urgent warning signs
• questions to ask professionals
• treatment and support approaches
• a compassionate message for families and carers
Pica is not simply “bad behaviour”. Understanding the reason, reducing environmental risk and accessing the right professional support can make a meaningful difference.
Space to Breathe Therapy • Support Hub
