What is binge-eating disorder?
Binge-eating disorder is a type of eating disorder and can affect people of any age and gender, though it tends to be more common in adults.
People with binge-eating disorder often eat in secret, sometimes hiding how much they have eaten from others. Feeling unable to control their eating can be distressing, and feelings of shame may make it difficult to seek support.
Binge-eating disorder can affect both physical and emotional wellbeing and is often associated with depression and anxiety.
In this video, psychotherapist Julie de Rohan discusses binge-eating disorder, including what it is and how counselling can help.
Signs of binge-eating disorder
Binge-eating disorder can involve a range of feelings and behaviours. Some people experience guilt, loneliness, sadness, low self-worth, stress, and anxiety.
Some people feel embarrassed about their eating behaviours or try to hide them from others, which can make seeking support difficult. Common signs of binge-eating disorder include:
- feelings of shame or guilt
- eating large amounts at once
- eating until you feel uncomfortably full
- feeling sad or upset about your body
- feeling very low or worthless
- sensing a loss of control around food, even if you want to stop
- feeling stressed or anxious
- eating in private or hiding how much you’re eating.
If you recognise any of the above signs or behaviours, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have an eating disorder, but speaking to a healthcare professional can help you understand what you're experiencing and what support is available.
When you are experiencing an eating disorder, it can be very difficult to see a way out – this is even more difficult if you’re doing it alone. But recovery is possible – however isolated you may feel right now, people are there to help you.
Getting support for binge-eating disorder
There is no single cause of binge-eating disorder. A combination of psychological, biological, and social factors may contribute to its development. Whatever your experience, support and treatment are available.
Talking about your experience can ease some of the pressure and stress you may be feeling, though we understand this can be incredibly daunting. We can often turn to friends and family for support, though sometimes that isn't possible. Other ways you can get support include speaking to your GP, reaching out to charities or support groups, or talking to a counsellor.
Treatment for binge-eating disorder
It’s important to realise that you can recover from an eating disorder. While it may not be straightforward or easy, seeking support early can help with recovery. Having people you trust around you can make it easier to take the next steps.
Self-help
Guided self-help is usually the first treatment offered to adults with binge-eating disorder. This involves working through a structured self-help programme, often based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), with support from a trained professional.
Talking therapies
If guided self-help isn't suitable or hasn't helped, you may be offered eating-disorder-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This is usually offered in a group, although individual sessions can also be considered if group therapy isn't available or suitable. Therapy can also help you develop ways to manage difficult emotions and build a healthier relationship with food.
Medication
Medication is not recommended as the only treatment for binge-eating disorder. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medication alongside psychological treatment, particularly if someone is also experiencing conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Understanding some of the emotional reasons that perpetuate your eating is a good start, and counselling will help you gain insight into this and assist you to develop tools for managing your emotions without turning to food.
- Disordered eating psychotherapist, S. Dosanjh, explains more in Ending the nightmare of binge eating.
Supporting a loved one
Having an eating disorder can be very scary and isolating. People may be too embarrassed to speak up, so it is important for others to know the signs and reach out if they're worried about a loved one.
If you suspect someone you know may be struggling, consider the following:
- Let them know you’re there. They may not be ready to talk, but knowing you will be there to listen when they are can help.
- Understand that while their behaviour may seem like a problem to you, they may not see it the same way. Try to understand their experience without judgement. They may find it difficult to talk about their eating behaviours or recognise when they need support.
- Be mindful that social situations involving food can sometimes feel difficult. Ask what your loved one feels comfortable with, rather than making assumptions.
- Educate yourself on eating disorders and how you can help. This can give you insight into what they are going through and how they may be feeling.
Remember to look after yourself. Worrying about a loved one can be exhausting, so take time out and talk through your thoughts. It can be frustrating to see someone you care about in trouble, but if you don't look after yourself, you risk pushing them away. Looking after your own wellbeing can help you support someone else.
Finding a counsellor or psychotherapist
When looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist, it's important to find someone with relevant training and experience in supporting people with eating disorders. You may want to ask about their qualifications, professional registration, and experience of working with binge-eating disorder.
A therapist with specialist knowledge of eating disorders can help you explore your relationship with food, understand patterns of behaviour, and develop ways to manage difficult thoughts and feelings. Depending on your needs, specialist eating disorder treatment may also be recommended.
If you're considering counselling, you can find a counsellor experienced in binge-eating disorder through Counselling Directory.
