When I try new foods, I think about all the people I'm helping.

ARFID, affecting between 0.5% to 5% of both children and adults, often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. It was officially recognized as a feeding and eating disorder in 2013. While its exact causes remain under investigation, there's growing evidence suggesting links to conditions like Autism, ADHD, and Anxiety, according to the American Psychiatric Association.

Contrary to common misconceptions, ARFID isn't about body image or the desire to be thin. Rather, it stems from a genuine fear of food, manifesting in various ways such as aversions to textures, smells, or fears of choking or vomiting. Danielle Gordon, a specialist in eating disorders, explains, "The people with this diagnosis have a fear of food, meaning a fear of consuming it or being around it.

Hannah's journey with ARFID began when her parents noticed concerning patterns in her eating habits and slowed growth. Michelle recounts their worry, saying, "We noticed... her growth was not increasing at the rate that it was supposed to. She ended up falling off of the growth chart eventually." Often, Hannah couldn't even tolerate being in the same room as food.

With the guidance of professionals like Gordon, exposure therapy has become a cornerstone of treatment for ARFID. Michelle attests to its effectiveness in helping her daughter navigate her relationship with food.

Through Hannah's bravery and resilience, she's not only reclaiming her own relationship with food but also shining a light on ARFID, fostering understanding, and inspiring others to seek help and support.

She's on cloud nine," Michelle, who preferred not to disclose her family's last name to "Nightline," exclaimed about Hannah. "She's thrilled to prove to herself and everyone watching that she can overcome these challenges." In January, Hannah and Michelle launched Hannah's Instagram page and initiated "My ARFID Life," drawing fans globally, including fellow ARFID sufferers. They've been inundated with supportive comments, providing a much-needed outlet for others with the condition.

Cassidy Arvidson, 27, of Brooklyn, shared her struggle after being diagnosed with ARFID three years ago. "ARFID affects my life every single day, especially socially," she revealed. "Dating is exhausting, and social events like going out with friends or work functions are challenging." She found solace and inspiration in Hannah's posts. "She's incredibly brave," Arvidson remarked.

Advocates like Gordon advocate for increased awareness of ARFID. "We need to spotlight ARFID more within the eating disorder community," she emphasized. "And in terms of research, we need to invest more to provide proper treatment for everyone.

In conclusion, Hannah's journey with ARFID, documented courageously on social media, has not only empowered her but has also become a beacon of hope for countless others navigating similar challenges. Through "My ARFID Life," Hannah and Michelle have created a supportive community where individuals from around the world can find understanding and solidarity. As awareness of ARFID grows, thanks to Hannah's advocacy and the voices of others like Cassidy Arvidson, it's clear that more attention, research, and resources are needed to ensure that everyone affected by this disorder receives the support and treatment they deserve. Together, we can continue to shine a light on ARFID and work towards a future where all individuals struggling with eating disorders, regardless of their specific diagnosis, can find the help and acceptance they need to thrive.