What is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious medical condition that requires professional treatment. The condition can be caused by many different factors, including impulsivity and personality traits. It is usually related to a person’s relationship with food and the environment.

People can have any weight, but the risk of developing BED increases for those who are overweight. Symptoms of the disorder include binge eating and an unhealthy relationship with food. Treatment for the disorder focuses on controlling the binge episodes and encouraging regular eating habits. In some cases, antidepressants may be used alongside psychological treatment.

Many people with BED are embarrassed by their condition. They are ashamed of their weight and are often unable to share their problem with others. Some individuals with BED have a family history of the disorder, and others have been taught to cope with negative emotions.

If you are concerned about your own BED, you need to find a therapist and ask questions. You should also inquire about the treatment team’s use of evidence-based treatments. There are several approaches to treatment for this condition, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and pharmacotherapy.

A doctor can refer you to a psychiatrist, who is trained to diagnose and treat mental illness. He or she will use special tools for interviewing patients and assessing symptoms. Psychiatrists can use specially designed questionnaires to diagnose the disorder. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include inpatient care, psychological therapy, and nutritional rehabilitation.

For a diagnosis of BED, the individual must have experienced a loss of control over eating behavior and reported consuming an unusually large amount of food in a short period of time. People who suffer from BED are also likely to display emotional distress, depression, and stress. During a bingeing episode, you may feel completely unaware of what you are doing.

People who suffer from BED can have difficulty digesting the food that they eat, causing problems with the intestines. Symptoms of BED can be life-threatening, and ongoing binge eating can lead to health complications. However, BED can be treated, and most people recover with community-based or inpatient treatment.

People with BED can develop other disorders, including substance abuse and impulse control disorder. They may also experience a variety of physical health issues, such as headaches, depression, and digestive problems. These conditions can lead to stress and other negative outcomes, and it is important to get support. As an advocate, you can help reduce the stigma associated with BED and increase the chance of successful recovery.

Early treatment is key to maintaining a healthy quality of life. In some cases, a mental health professional will prescribe an antidepressant, which can help reduce the feelings of sadness and guilt that accompany binge eating. Patients will need counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and/or cognitive therapy, to learn how to regulate their thoughts and behaviors with food.

Research is currently being conducted on the cause of BED. Genetics, social and environmental factors, and emotional regulation are all believed to contribute.