Binge-Eating Disorder

• Do you have repeated episodes in which you eat excessively and uncontrollably?
• Do you have intense feelings of distress and/or remorse after eating this way?
• Do you not use methods such as vomiting or over-exercising to try to eliminate food from your body?

If you’ve answered “yes” to these questions, it’s possible that you are suffering from an eating disorder called Binge-Eating Disorder.

Bingeing refers to eating an excessive amount of food in a short period of time.  It’s normal for people to overeat once in a while, such as at holiday dinners.  Yet if you’re constantly overeating as a way to deal with your emotions, then it may be an illness.  Please keep reading for more information.

Whom Does Binge-Eating Disorder Affect?

An estimated 2% of adults in the US suffer from this illness, so if you think you may have it, you’re not alone.

Binge-eating disorder affects slightly more women than men, but men are certainly affected too.  It frequently develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, but it can begin earlier or later depending on life circumstances.

What Causes Binge-Eating Disorder?

Though causes may differ from person to person, here’s an example of some factors that may be related to the illness:

• Biological predisposition
• Depression
• Low self-esteem
• Poor body image
• Issues with impulse control
• Trauma such as sexual abuse
• Having parents who used food to reward or comfort you

How Can I Tell If I Have Binge-Eating Disorder?

If you feel you may have this illness, you may wish to complete this survey.  Select “true” or “false” for each statement, depending on whether or not the description generally fits you.  The more true statements you identify, the more likely it is that you have the disorder.  (*Please note that this is NOT a scientific survey.  It’s for informational purposes only.  For a true diagnosis, you’ll need to consult a mental health specialist.*)

True/False            I feel depressed and/or disgusted about how much food I eat.

True/False            I eat so much that I feel sick.

True/False            I eat even when I’m already full.

True/False            I eat so quickly when I’m bingeing that I don’t even realize what I’m doing.

True/False            I eat in private so that others don’t see how much I consume.

True/False            Bingeing interferes with my day-to-day activities, like school or work.

True/False            I stash food away to eat when I’m alone.

Consequences of Binge-Eating Disorder

While risks may differ from person to person, here are some of the health-related troubles associated with the illness:

• Obesity
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Some types of cancer
• Pain in muscles and/or joints
• Sleep problems
• Gastrointestinal issues

In addition to these health issues, people with binge-eating disorder may also suffer the following social & emotional consequences:

• Depression
• Social isolation
• Self-esteem issues
• Problems at work
• Relationship issues
• Feeling suicidal

Self-Help Suggestions

• Make sure to eat a healthy breakfast every day.  Those who skip breakfast are more likely to overeat later in the day and to weigh more than those who don’t.
• Avoid foods that trigger you to overeat, such as junk foods and dessert.  Keep your house stocked with healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead to create a healthier eating pattern.
• Exercise at least three times per week.  This helps with weight management, and it also releases feel-good endorphins to boost your mood and self-esteem.  This may reduce your urge to eat for emotional reasons.
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation.  These will help you to de-stress, which can help you ward off the urge to binge eat.

Seeking Professional Treatment

While the above suggestions may be helpful for some, they are not a replacement for treatment with a mental health specialist.  Qualified therapists are trained in methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR, which can help you to release painful memories that may be triggering issues in the present.  Also, your therapist can work with you on developing more adaptive thought patterns and eating habits.

If you are suffering from binge-eating disorder, you are not alone.  Many others have had this illness, and have managed to overcome it with professional help.  You can do the same.  Please don’t let yourself suffer anymore.

For more information, you can contact Mark Dworkin LCSW at (516) 731-7611 or mark@markdworkin.com Mark is available for speaking engagements for the general public and professional communities, radio and tv appearances, seminars, webinars, enhancing professional development, workshops and trainings.

Sources

http://helpguide.org/mental/binge_eating_disorder.htm