Unlike other eating disorders, individuals suffering with binge eating disorder do not fast, purge or engage in strenuous exercise after food consumption. Contrary to popular belief such individuals do not spend time fantasising about food and are not obsessed or addicted to eating. The binge eating episodes usually follow feelings of sadness, anger or boredom.
Individuals suffering from various types of eating disorder such as this frequently exhibit feelings of shame, guilt and embarrassment about food. They often eat alone to avoid the disorder being discovered.
It is linked to other psychiatric disorders such as depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. Emotional deregulation and high impulsivity are common triggers in individuals with Binge Eating Disorder.
Treatment
- If you think you may have an eating disorder, see a GP as soon as you can. A GP will ask about your eating habits and how you’re feeling, plus check your overall health and weight.
- They may refer you to an eating disorder specialist or team of specialists.
- It can be very hard to admit you have a problem and ask for help. It may make things easier if you bring a friend or loved one with you to your appointment.
- You can also talk in confidence to an adviser from eating disorders charity Beat by calling the Beat helpline on 0808 801 0677.