What is binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder is when an individual feels compelled to overeat on a regular basis. It is usually accompanied by a feeling of being out of control during these episodes.
Binge eating disorder symptoms
Binge eating disorder usually includes at least three of the following:
- Eating extremely fast
- Eating beyond feeling full
- Eating a lot when not hungry
- Eating in secret to hide the amount that is being eaten
- Feeling terrible after a binge
In order to meet the diagnosis for the disorder, a person needs to binge eat at least once a week for three months.
Unlike other eating disorders like bulimia, binge eating doesn’t involve engaging in compensatory behaviours such as purging or the use of laxatives or over-exercising.
Frequently asked questions
When should I get help for binge eating disorder?
If binge eating is beginning to interfere in your daily life (e.g. you’re spending a lot of money on food and many hours a day bingeing) or you’re beginning to rely on it as a strategy for managing difficult emotions, it’s important that you seek support.
Which treatments are most effective for binge eating disorder?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, and skills for developing mindful eating.
Is it possible to have binge eating disorder as well as another eating disorder?
Yes, it’s possible for people to oscillate between different types of eating difficulties. For example, sometimes they may engage in binge eating and at others, restrict their eating. When a person is struggling with disordered eating, the nature of the difficulty can manifest in different ways as well as change over time.
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