What Is Binge Eating Disorder?

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Binge eating disorder (BED) is an eating disorder that affects a person’s relationship with food and their body. It is associated with serious medical and psychological consequences, including increased risk of obesity, depression and a variety of chronic diseases. BED often occurs in combination with other psychiatric conditions, such as mood disorders, anxiety and substance use disorders.

Symptoms of BED include frequent episodes of extreme overeating that are followed by a feeling of being out of control. BED may be triggered by emotional, social or family issues. It can be difficult to identify, and it is important to seek help if you think you or someone you know might have this condition.

If you have BED, effective treatments are available. Psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interoceptive processing therapy (IPT), can help you change the thoughts that lead to binges. Medications, such as lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) and medications used to treat seizures or some antidepressants, can also reduce cravings and control eating.

Yale Medicine Psychiatry offers advanced care for individuals with BED, including psychological and behavioral treatment as well as expert management of co-occurring mental health conditions. Our experts use evidence-based practices that have been shown to improve outcomes.

Many people exhibit some of the warning signs of BED from time to time. However, when these symptoms recur regularly and have a significant impact on your life, you should talk to your doctor. The sooner you seek treatment, the more likely you are to overcome this debilitating disorder.