Binge eating disorder is just as serious, just as real, and just as dangerous as anorexia and bulimia. Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States. About 3.5% of women and 2% of men have it. The disorder can occur in anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or other demographic categorization.
This is an important point to highlight because while many people have some knowledge of anorexia and bulimia, they often pause when we talk about binge eating disorder (BED). The conversation that follows can highlight common misconceptions about binge eating disorder, which may also shine a light on why sometimes people don’t think it’s a big deal. “Oh, I must have that. I binge eat when I get stressed out during [insert occasional situation here].” “When I watch TV I zone out and eat.” “Every holiday I end up overeating.” But there is a difference. Let’s talk about what binge eating disorder is and is not, how it’s caused, and why it’s important to get treated.
Binge eating disorder is not the same as overeating. Most people overeat on occasion and don’t experience any major adverse effects. So which characteristics define binge eating disorder as an eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of binge eating during which a person feels a loss of control over their eating. Binge eating episodes are often driven by a need to soothe negative emotions. According to the DSM-5, to be diagnosed with binge eating disorder, three or more of the following criteria must be met:
Unlike bulimia, binge eating episodes are not followed by purging, excessive exercise, fasting, or other compensatory behaviors. Binge eating disorder occurs more frequently in those living in larger bodies, but people of all body sizes can be diagnosed with binge eating disorder. Guilt, shame, and/or distress about their eating behavior is common – which can lead to more binge eating. So, even though the common misconceptions and comments involve overeating from time to time, occasional binges are not likely an eating disorder.
Binge eating disorder can result from a variety of biological, psychological, and social factors. These include:
Binge eating disorder can contribute to many psychological and physical problems. Complications of binge eating disorder may include difficulty functioning at work, social isolation, and a range of dermatological, gastrointestinal, and other physical effects.
It is important to seek treatment for binge eating disorder if you suspect that you or someone in your life may be struggling. Because binge eating disorder has effects on both mental and physical health, it isn’t enough to get treated for the physical symptoms only. It doesn’t address the root of the problem, so it won’t truly make it go away.
The best way to treat binge eating disorder is by working with a multidisciplinary team of specialists to address the whole person. These are serious illnesses, but with the right treatment and support, people can and do recover. The Emily Program has provided specialty treatment for eating disorders for over 25 years. Reach out to us today at 1-888-364-5977 or start the process online.
Call 888-364-5977 for help now.
The Emily Program is a University of Minnesota Medical School Affiliate
Copyright © 2019 - Emily Program. All rights reserved.
By clicking “Send” below, you are indicating that you understand and agree to these terms regarding the use of your information:
The information you submit on this form will be used internally for the purposes of processing and responding to your request. It may be routed internally in order to find the most appropriate member of staff to handle your request and your contact information will only be used to respond to your inquiry if you indicate permission to do so.
In addition, the information submitted may become a part of the patient’s permanent chart or treatment record at The Emily Program upon their utilization of The Emily Program services, and this information may be used in the planning of treatment and care provided to the patient. At the time the patient utilizes The Emily Program services, The Emily Program’s Notice of Privacy Practices and other HIPAA and information privacy and security policies will apply to the information submitted on this form and to any other information that The Emily Program maintains about the patient and the care provided to the patient.
Your information has been submitted.