Interoception
Understanding Hunger, Thirst, Fullness and Body Awareness - Part 2 of 2
In Part 2 of my Interoception series, I explore what happens when internal body signals must compete with hyperfocus, executive-function demands, sensory distress, prolonged stress or burnout.
For many people with ADHD, noticing hunger is only the first step. Acting on that signal may also require stopping a task, switching attention, deciding what to eat and preparing food. Each transition asks for cognitive energy. This can explain why someone may understand that they need food or water but still find it difficult to respond straight away.
The article also explores interoception and ARFID. When hunger is rarely noticed, food may feel unnecessary. When fullness is difficult to recognise, meals may become confusing. When nausea and anxiety feel alike, eating may feel unsafe. Understanding the experience beneath the behaviour allows support to become more individual and compassionate.
I also look at how body awareness can change during prolonged stress and autistic burnout. Meals may become irregular, hydration may decrease and tiredness may go unnoticed while someone continues caring for everyone around them. Eventually the body has to demand attention more loudly.
The encouraging message is that support does not depend on perfect internal awareness. Phone reminders, visible drinks, predictable meal times, safe foods and gentle check-ins can all help. These are not tests or signs of failure; they are practical ways of working with the nervous system.
Most importantly, your relationship with your body is not a measure of your worth. Curiosity is more helpful than criticism, and every small pause to notice a need can help build a kinder relationship with yourself.
With warmth,
Maggie
Psychotherapist | ADHD, Autism & ARFID Specialist
Founder of Space to Breathe Therapy
