Binge Eating Disorder Treatment & Recovery
Contact us about in-person and virtual treatment options for binge eating.
Understanding Binge Eating Disorder: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options
Binge eating disorder (BED) creates a debilitating cycle of uncontrolled eating episodes followed by intense shame and guilt. As the most prevalent eating disorder in the United States, BED affects millions who struggle with consuming large quantities of food while feeling powerless to stop. At The Emily Program, we understand that binge eating disorder isn’t a lack of willpower—it’s a serious mental health condition requiring specialized care.
Our comprehensive binge eating disorder treatment programs address the complex physical, emotional, and nutritional aspects of BED, helping you break free from the binge-restriction cycle and develop a healthier relationship with food and your body.
If you’re ready to reclaim your life from binge eating disorder, help is available. Your recovery journey can begin today.
What is Binge Eating Disorder?
Binge eating disorder involves recurring episodes of consuming abnormally large amounts of food in a discrete period while experiencing a profound loss of control. Unlike bulimia nervosa, these episodes aren’t followed by compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise, though restrictive dieting often occurs between binges—ultimately reinforcing the cycle.
Formally recognized in the DSM-5 since 2013, binge eating disorder is now the second most common eating disorder after OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder), affecting approximately 2-5% of the U.S. population across all genders, ages, races, and body sizes.
During a typical binge eating episode, you might:
- Eat substantially faster than normal
- Continue eating until uncomfortably or painfully full
- Consume large quantities of food despite not feeling physically hungry
- Eat alone due to embarrassment about the amount consumed
- Experience overwhelming feelings of disgust, depression, or guilt afterward
For a clinical diagnosis of binge eating disorder, these episodes typically occur at least once weekly over three months and cause significant distress. Many individuals with BED also struggle with co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or substance use disorders.
The physical complications of untreated binge eating disorder can be serious, including high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular issues—regardless of body weight or appearance.
Don’t wait to seek help for binge eating disorder. Early intervention improves recovery outcomes.
Signs & Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder
Recognizing binge eating disorder can be challenging, as many individuals become skilled at hiding their behaviors. Understanding the full spectrum of symptoms—both emotional and physical—can help identify when professional support is needed.
Emotional and Behavioral Signs
- Intense feelings of shame, guilt, or disgust after eating episodes
- Persistent negative body image and diminished self-worth
- Secretive eating habits and social withdrawal
- Noticeable anxiety or distress around mealtimes
- Creating rituals or patterns around eating behaviors
- Obsessive thinking about food and uncontrollable cravings
- Avoiding social situations involving food
- Feeling out of control during eating episodes
- Depression, anxiety, and mood fluctuations
- Extreme concern about body shape or weight
Physical Symptoms
- Unexplained weight fluctuations or steady weight gain
- Gastrointestinal distress including acid reflux, constipation, or abdominal pain
- Cardiometabolic issues such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol
- Disrupted endocrine function and hormonal imbalances
- Potential in some for joint pain and reduced mobility
- Poor sleep quality and fatigue
- Headaches and reduced concentration
If these warning signs resonate with your experience or that of someone you care about, completing a binge eating assessment or calling our team at 1-888-364-5977 can be the first step toward healing.
If you or someone you know needs help with binge eating disorder, reach out today.
What Causes Binge Eating Disorder?
Binge eating disorder develops from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors—not personal failure or lack of discipline. Understanding these root causes is crucial for effective binge eating disorder treatment and recovery.
Biological Factors
- Genetic predisposition: Family history of eating disorders increases risk
- Brain chemistry differences: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin affect appetite regulation and mood
- Hormonal disruptions: Fluctuations in hormones controlling hunger and satiety signals
Psychological Contributors
- Emotional regulation challenges: Using food to cope with difficult feelings
- Perfectionism and rigid thinking patterns: All-or-nothing approaches to eating and health
- Body dissatisfaction: Internalized weight stigma and negative body image
- History of dieting: Repeated restrictive dieting triggers biological and psychological responses that promote bingeing
Environmental Triggers
- Traumatic experiences: Past trauma or adverse childhood experiences
- Weight stigma and discrimination: Harmful societal messages about body size and worth
- Family dynamics around food: Early messages about eating, weight, and emotional expression
- High-stress environments: Work pressure, relationship difficulties, or major life changes
Recognizing that binge eating disorder isn’t your fault is a fundamental step toward recovery. The compulsive nature of BED stems from these complex factors rather than personal weakness or moral failing.
How Common is Binge Eating Disorder?
Binge eating disorder affects a significant portion of the population but often goes undiagnosed or untreated due to shame and misconceptions about the condition.
- Approximately 1.25% of adult women and 0.42% of adult men experience binge eating disorder
- Around 1.6% of adolescents between 13-18 years are affected by BED
- The average age of onset is approximately 25 years, though symptoms can begin earlier
- BED accounts for nearly half of all eating disorder diagnoses in the United States
- The condition affects people of all body sizes, races, ethnicities, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds
- Less than 43% of individuals with binge eating disorder receive appropriate treatment
These statistics highlight the importance of increased awareness, early intervention, and accessible binge eating disorder treatment options. The prevalence of BED underscores that if you’re struggling, you are far from alone—and effective help is available.
Comprehensive Binge Eating Disorder Treatment
The Emily Program offers evidence-based, multidisciplinary binge eating disorder treatment designed to meet the full range of medical, nutritional, and psychological needs. Our personalized approach supports lasting recovery by addressing the biological, emotional, and behavioral aspects of binge eating. Treatment includes leading therapeutic interventions like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), tailored to each individual’s experience.
We emphasize a balanced, sustainable relationship with food—rooted in the philosophy that all foods can fit as part of normalized eating. Our providers work with clients to reduce shame, challenge harmful diet culture messages, and develop greater body trust and self-compassion. We also promote body acceptance and wellbeing across the weight spectrum, guided by principles aligned with weight-inclusive care.
Key Components of Our Binge Eating Treatment Approach
Comprehensive Care Team
Our multidisciplinary specialists collaborate to provide integrated treatment addressing all aspects of binge eating disorder:
- Medical doctors monitor and address physical health complications
- Registered dietitians develop sustainable, non-restrictive nutrition approaches
- Licensed therapists apply evidence-based psychological interventions
- Psychiatrists manage medication when appropriate for BED and co-occurring conditions
Individualized Treatment Planning
We recognize that binge eating disorder manifests differently for each person and design treatment plans that:
- Respect your unique identity, including cultural, gender, and personal values
- Address specific triggers and patterns driving your binge eating behaviors
- Consider practical life circumstances, including work, family, and support systems
- Adapt as your needs evolve throughout the recovery process
In-Depth Therapeutic Work
Our binge eating disorder treatment programs go beyond symptom management to address underlying issues:
- Process emotions that trigger binge behaviors
- Develop healthier coping mechanisms for stress and difficult feelings
- Challenge distorted thoughts about food, body, and self-worth
- Break the self-perpetuating cycle of restriction and bingeing
- Build skills for responding to urges without acting on them
Trauma-Informed Approach
Recognizing the frequent connection between trauma and disordered eating, our binge eating disorder treatment incorporates:
- Sensitivity to trauma histories and triggers
- Appropriate pacing that respects individual readiness
- Integration of trauma-specific therapies when needed
- Attention to co-occurring conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD
Levels of Binge Eating Disorder Treatment
The Emily Program offers a full continuum of care to match the appropriate level of support to your specific needs at each stage of recovery.
Inpatient & Residential Treatment
Our highest level of care provides 24/7 structured support for those whose binge eating disorder significantly impacts daily functioning or presents serious health concerns:
- Round-the-clock medical and psychological monitoring
- Therapeutic meals with staff support
- Individual and group therapy sessions daily
- Structured environment to interrupt binge patterns
- Multidisciplinary team addressing all aspects of recovery
Day Treatment Programs (PHP/IDP & IOP)
Intensive but flexible programs allow you to receive substantial support while maintaining some connection to your daily life:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)/Intensive Day Program (IDP): 6-8 hours of treatment daily
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): 3-4 hours of treatment several days weekly
- Structured meal support and therapy in a group setting
- Opportunity to practice skills in real-world environments
Outpatient Binge Eating Treatment
For those with less severe symptoms or transitioning from higher levels of care:
- Individual therapy sessions (typically weekly)
- Nutritional counseling with eating disorder specialists
- Psychiatric services when appropriate
- Family and group therapy options
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate work and personal commitments
Virtual Binge Eating Disorder Treatment
Our secure telehealth platform makes specialized care accessible regardless of location:
- Evidence-based virtual therapy with eating disorder specialists
- Online nutrition counseling and meal support
- Virtual group therapy sessions
- Same quality standards as in-person treatment
- Increased accessibility for those with transportation, mobility, or scheduling challenges
CARE IOP: Specialized Virtual Program for BED
Our Connection, Awareness, Recovery, and Embodiment (CARE) Intensive Outpatient Program is specifically designed for adults with binge eating disorder or OSFED with bingeing behaviors:
- Virtual group-based approach focused on BED-specific challenges
- Skills development for emotional regulation without using food
- Body acceptance and intuitive eating principles
- Peer support from others with similar experiences
- Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Evidence-Based Approaches to Binge Eating Disorder Recovery
The Emily Program integrates the most effective therapeutic modalities for binge eating disorder treatment, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E)
CBT-E helps identify and modify the thoughts and behaviors that maintain binge eating patterns:
- Addressing distorted beliefs about food, weight, and body image
- Establishing regular, flexible eating patterns to prevent restriction
- Developing alternative responses to emotional triggers
- Building problem-solving skills for high-risk situations
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT provides practical skills for managing intense emotions without turning to food:
- Mindfulness practices for staying present during urges
- Distress tolerance techniques for handling difficult feelings
- Emotional regulation strategies to reduce impulsivity
- Interpersonal effectiveness to improve relationships and support
Family-Based Treatment (FBT)
When appropriate, particularly for adolescents with BED, FBT engages family members as allies in the recovery process:
- Educating families about binge eating disorder
- Building supportive home environments that discourage bingeing
- Developing communication strategies around food and emotions
- Creating sustainable family practices that support recovery
Nutritional Rehabilitation and Counseling
Our registered dietitians specialize in eating disorders and provide:
- Non-diet approaches to nourishment and health
- Structured meal planning to prevent restriction and subsequent binges
- Education about hunger/fullness signals and physical needs
- Gradual exposure to feared or trigger foods in a supported environment
Medication Management
- When clinically appropriate, our psychiatric providers may recommend medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Medication can support recovery by helping to reduce binge urges, stabilize mood, or address co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or depression. Any decisions around medication are made collaboratively, with careful consideration of each individual’s unique needs, goals, and medical history.
Steps to Recover from Binge Eating Disorder
The journey to recovery from binge eating disorder is both challenging and profoundly rewarding. While everyone’s path is unique, these fundamental steps can guide your process:
1. Acknowledge the disorder and its impact on your life
- Recognize binge eating as a serious health condition requiring treatment
- Understand that recovery is possible with appropriate support
2. Seek professional binge eating disorder treatment
- Begin with our free, confidential assessment
- Consult with specialists who understand the complexities of BED
3. Engage fully in your personalized treatment plan
- Participate in recommended therapies (CBT-E, DBT, nutritional counseling)
- Consider medication options when appropriate
- Attend all scheduled sessions and complete therapeutic exercises
4. Develop sustainable eating patterns and coping skills
- Establish regular, adequate, and flexible nutrition
- Build a toolkit of alternative responses to emotional triggers
- Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques
5. Build a supportive recovery environment
- Communicate needs to trusted friends and family
- Set appropriate boundaries around food and body comments
- Consider joining support groups specific to binge eating recovery
6. Plan for maintenance and relapse prevention
- Identify personal warning signs and high-risk situations
- Create specific strategies for challenging circumstances
- Schedule regular check-ins with your treatment team
Recovery from binge eating disorder isn’t measured by achieving a particular weight or perfect eating behavior—it’s about developing a healthier relationship with food, your body, and your emotions. The process takes time, but with professional support and personal commitment, freedom from the binge-restriction cycle is achievable.
Take the First Step Toward Freedom from Binge Eating Disorder
Breaking free from binge eating disorder begins with reaching out for professional help. At The Emily Program, we’ve guided thousands of individuals through successful recovery, and we’re ready to support you with compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
The path to healing starts with a simple action: schedule a binge eating assessment online or call our admissions team at 1-888-364-5977—no physician referral needed. Our caring specialists are available seven days a week to answer your questions and connect you with the appropriate level of care.
Don’t let another day pass in the grip of binge eating disorder. Reclaim your relationship with food, your body, and your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Binge Eating Disorder
Binge eating disorder doesn’t have to be forever. Don’t let misconceptions about this serious illness keep you from seeking the support needed for healing. At The Emily Program, we know that lasting recovery from binge eating disorder is possible—because we’ve seen it firsthand. If you believe that you or someone you know may be struggling with binge eating disorder, reach out for a free assessment. There’s no commitment to pursue care, and no referral is needed before contacting us. Visit our Get Help webpage to get in touch today. We’re here to address your concerns, answer any questions about our binge eating treatment, and get you, your loved one, or your patient on the path toward reclaiming a peaceful relationship with food and body.
Recovery from an eating disorder looks different for everyone. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to healing, which is why The Emily Program individualizes our treatment to fit each client’s unique circumstances. The duration of care varies from client to client based on the severity of your symptoms, your response to treatment, your personal goals, and more.
The Emily Program offers a range of treatment options, including inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization/intensive day (PHP/IDP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and outpatient programming. Our experts will explore these options with you and tailor to meet your specific needs. Our multidisciplinary care teams will work collaboratively with you and your community of support to develop a treatment plan that is not only specific to you, but is also specifically designed to prevent relapse, a common challenge for these illnesses.
No matter the level of care you’re in, The Emily Program’s binge eating disorder treatment will have the same goals: to address any of the underlying emotional or psychological issues that are maintaining your eating disorder, help you overcome your disordered behaviors, support you in developing healthy coping skills, establish health-promoting eating patterns, and promote self-compassion. If your binge eating has resulted in nutritional deficiencies or medical complications, we’ll address those, as well.
The Emily Program takes an individualized approach to binge eating disorder treatment, tailoring care to the needs of each client and their support network. You’ll be matched with a multidisciplinary care team—which includes medical providers, dietitians, and psychiatrists—to treat you as a whole person. We address the range of physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of your eating disorder, rather than just targeting your individual symptoms. This holistic approach emphasizes self-compassion, body acceptance, and long-term recovery. Our goal is to provide you with tailored, compassionate, and effective care that honors your unique circumstances and supports you in building healthier relationships with food, your bodies, and yourself.
At The Emily Program, we use a variety of evidence-based modalities, adapting them to your needs as they shift over the course of treatment. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect in binge eating disorder treatment at The Emily Program:
- Therapy sessions in individual, group, and family settings informed by a unique blend of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family-based therapy (FBT)
- Nutritional guidance from our registered dietitians, involving nutrition therapy, therapeutic meal support, and nutrition therapy and education
- Medication management and psychiatric care to address underlying conditions contributing to the eating disorder
- A supportive, judgment-free environment that honors the severity and life-limiting nature of your illness
Learn about our specialized stand-alone program for binge eating disorder, virtual CARE IOP, currently available in Minnesota, Ohio, and Washington.
If you notice the signs of binge eating disorder in your child, address it as soon as possible, instead of waiting to see if it resolves itself. Eating disorders require professional treatment with a multidisciplinary team of experts; they are not passing phases that go away on their own.
For children 11 and under, we recommend sharing your concerns with your child’s pediatrician, primary care physician, or therapist for advice on what to do next. The following conversation guidelines are meant for adolescents 12 and older:
Before the conversation:
Consider how, where, and when you have this discussion. Give yourself plenty of time; you don’t want to be in the middle of the conversion and have to cut it short. This will be a very personal and vulnerable conversation for your adolescent — therefore, it’s important to create a safe environment and only have essential people there. Make sure to come to the discussion with specific binge eating disorder behaviors you’ve noticed in your loved one and why these behaviors concern you.
You are likely worried about how these harmful BED behaviors are affecting your child. This fear for your adolescent’s well-being may cause you to want to be confrontational — do your best to resist this urge. Your fear and anxiety are understandable, but the conversation will go much smoother if you enter in a less heightened emotional state. Take time to gather your thoughts beforehand so that you can approach the conversation calmly and empathetically.
Unfortunately, eating disorders are still very misunderstood in our culture, making it essential to educate yourself before talking to your adolescent. Binge eating disorder, for example, is sometimes regarded as less serious than the other diagnoses. It’s also commonly misunderstood as a condition only affecting people in larger bodies, or one that willpower alone can fix. These myths are dangerous and untrue.
Binge eating disorder is a complex and dangerous illness that often comes with intense feelings of guilt, shame, and self-loathing. It is natural to be concerned about the outward symptoms of BED (binge eating, intense dieting, hiding food, only eating alone, etc.), however, focusing too much on these behaviors can reinforce your adolescent’s harmful eating disorder thoughts. These thoughts can include, “There is something wrong with me,” “I’m not good enough,” or “I’m bad.” We are not suggesting you ignore these outward behaviors. Instead, try to come from a place of non-judgment. Eating disorders require treatment from professionals — doctors, therapists, psychiatrists, and registered dietitians — to treat the serious internal and external aspects of the illness, they are not a choice or a personal failing.
While it’s important to educate yourself, you are not required to know everything about BED to have this talk with your child. You can find trustworthy resources on our Binge Eating Disorder or Eating Disorder Facts pages.
Your loved one may cast your concerns aside or provide excuses for their disordered behaviors. They may be so entrenched in their illness that they do not see their actions or thoughts as an issue. On the other hand, they may feel relieved that you’ve noticed what they’re going through. Being confronted about an eating disorder can be unnerving for those experiencing them and can bring about a range of reactions.
Make it clear to your loved one that you are taking their eating disorder seriously. If your adolescent is resistant to receiving your concerns, it may help to point out that you’ve noticed that they appear to have less energy, joy, or time to spend doing things they love. Hearing how much you care for them is essential for your child to hear.
If your first conversation with your adolescent doesn’t go well, ask them to think over what you’ve discussed and tell them you’ll talk again soon. Do not wait more than a couple of days before talking about your concerns again. Eating disorders often convince the people experiencing them that their behaviors aren’t “that bad” and they can “handle it” themselves. No matter how much your child tries to convince you that their disordered patterns are not a “big deal,” stick to your message. Express how much they matter to you and lead with curiosity, not judgment. Here are some examples of how to start a conversation about their binge eating disorder symptoms:
- “I have noticed that you tend not to eat with me anymore, instead eating in your room”
- “I have heard you talk very negatively about yourself and your body.”
- “I have noticed that large amounts of food are disappearing.”
- “You seem to be eating much more quickly than usual.”
- “I’ve noticed you haven’t been eating much around us lately.”
Follow up with:
- “Your well-being means a lot to me, and I’m genuinely worried.”
- “Can you share your experiences with me?”
- “How do you feel about my perspective?”
- “I’d love to understand your thoughts and hear what’s been going on with you.”
- “How have the past few months been for you?”
Listen to their answers and thank them for sharing with you.
Check out the For Families section of our website for more tips.
Treating your child with respect and kindness and working to make your child comfortable are some of the main priorities for our trained professional intake therapists. A person’s energy level, mood, focus, and thoughts can be affected by an eating disorder. Our therapists take this into account when dealing with a resistant client.
At The Emily Program, we know that eating disorders impact the whole family, and it’s okay if things feel chaotic right now. We’re here to walk alongside you and your child on this healing journey. We’ll provide the support and resources you both need to navigate this uncertain time, one step at a time.
Holding the internal struggles of binge eating disorder can be a deeply isolating and overwhelming experience. Making use of resources to find connection with others facing this insidious illness can make a world of difference in reducing feelings of loneliness and shame. Learning more about the prevalence of binge eating disorder, the roots of these illnesses, and your options for treatment are additional great first steps to combat any concerns and inspire hope.
When starting treatment for binge eating disorder at The Emily Program, you will receive a packet of expert-vetted educational materials to empower you on your recovery journey.
In addition, The Emily Program offers a blog and hosts the Peace Meal podcast to share helpful knowledge and inspiring stories of recovery.
Support Groups:
The National Alliance for Eating Disorders offers free virtual support groups led by licensed eating disorder clinicians. You can join and participate as much or as little as you need — listening is OK too.
- Pro-Recovery Support Groups:
- Mondays, 9am PT, 11am CT, 12pm ET
- Tuesdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
- Wednesdays, 6pm PT, 8pm CT, 9pm ET
- Thursdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
- Fridays, 9am PT, 11am CT, 12pm ET
- Saturdays, 8am PT, 10am CT, 11am ET
- Larger Body Individuals Pro-Recovery Support Group: Mondays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
- LGBTQ+ Pro-Recovery Support Group: Wednesdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
- Friends & Family Support Group: Thursdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
- Mom2Mom Support Group: Tuesdays, 1pm PT, 3pm CT, 4pm ET
- Individuals Who Have Lost a Loved One Support Group: every third Monday of the month, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
Learn more and register on The Alliance’s website.
The National Alliance for Eating Disorders – A national non-profit organization providing referrals, education, and support for all eating disorders. In addition to their free virtual therapist-led support groups, they have a national, interactive database for finding eating disorder care. www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com
F.E.A.S.T. – Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment for Eating Disorders – A global community offering support, education, and empowerment to families of people affected by eating disorders www.feast-ed.org
National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) – This is a non-profit organization devoted to preventing eating disorders, providing treatment referrals, and increasing education and understanding of eating disorders, weight, and body image. www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders) – Anational non-profit organization that provides free peer support services to anyone struggling with an eating disorder. anad.org
Project HEAL – A national non-profit organization focused on equitable treatment access for those with eating disorders needing treatment www.theprojectheal.org
Books:
When Your Teen Has an Eating Disorder: Practical Strategies to Help Your Teen Recover from Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating
By Lauren Muhlheim, PsyD
Overcoming Binge Eating: The Proven Program to Learn Why You Binge and How You Can Stop – 2nd Edition
By Dr. Christopher G. Fairburn
Help Your Teenager Beat an Eating Disorder – 2nd Edition
By James Lock, MD, PhD, Daniel Le Grange, PhD
How to Nourish Your Child Through an Eating Disorder: A Simple, Plate-by-Plate Approach to Rebuilding a Healthy Relationship with Food
By Casey Crosbie, RD, CEDRD, CSSD, Wendy Sterling, MS, RD, CSSD, CEDRD-S
Autism and Eating Disorders in Teens
By Fiona Fisher Bullivant, Sharleen Woods, MSc, PgDip, RD
Skills-based Caring for a Loved One with an Eating Disorder: The New Maudsley Method – 2nd Edition
By Janet Treasure, OBE, PhD, FRCP, FRCPsych, Grainne Smith, Anna Crane, PhD
Off the C.U.F.F.: A Parent Skills Book for the Management of Disordered Eating
By Dr. Nancy L. Zucker, PhD
Throwing Starfish Across the Sea: A Pocket-Sized Care Package for the Parents of Someone with an Eating Disorder
By Laura Collins Lyster-Mensh, MS, Charlotte Bevan
Telling ED No!: And Other Practical Tools to Conquer Your Eating Disorder and Find Freedom
By Cheryl Kerrigan, PNP, Thom Rutledge, LCSW
Life Without ED – 10th Edition: How One Woman Declared Independence from Her Eating Disorder and How You Can Too
By Jenni Schaefer
Goodbye ED, Hello Me: Recover from Your Eating Disorder and Fall in Love with Life
By Jenni Schaefer
Find more recommendations on our Resources webpage.
Treatment for binge eating disorders is unique to the individual, and medications may or may not be included in your treatment plan. Yes, there are medications available to help treat binge eating disorder (BED). Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse) is the first FDA-approved drug specifically for BED in adults. It works by controlling impulsive behavior that can lead to binging.
Other medications that may be prescribed include antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants. These target brain chemicals that control mood, which may help reduce binge eating episodes.
In some cases, anti-seizure drugs like topiramate (Topamax) might be recommended. It’s important to note that medication is often used in combination with therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for the most effective treatment.
The onset of binge eating disorder often involves feeling a lack of control over your eating behavior. You might find yourself consuming unusually large amounts of food in short periods, even when you’re not physically hungry. Early signs can include:
- Eating much faster than normal
- Feeling uncomfortably full after meals
- Eating large amounts of food when not hungry
- Eating alone due to embarrassment
- Feeling disgusted, ashamed, or guilty after overeating
You might be binge eating if you experience recurring episodes where you:
- Consume large quantities of food rapidly
- Feel unable to stop eating once you’ve started
- Eat until you’re uncomfortably full
- Often eat alone or in secret
- Feel depressed, ashamed, or guilty about your eating habits
If these behaviors occur at least once a week for three months, it may indicate binge eating disorder. Remember, seeking help from a healthcare professional is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.