Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder is defined as eating in a discreet period of time an amount of food that is definitely larger than most people would eat in a similar period of time or under similar circumstances. This is not the same as what occurs during a holiday celebration or other times of overeating but is a regular occurrence where the most common cause of the binge eating is difficulty in dealing with negative affect. There is a sense of lack of control over eating during the episode with a feeling that one cannot stop eating or control how much one is eating. The binge eater usually eats more rapidly than normal, eats until uncomfortably full, eats large amounts of food even when not hungry, eats alone for feeling embarrassed and experiences depression and guilt afterwards. The most common causes for developing a Binge Eating Disorder is experiencing negative affect and interpersonal stressors.

Proper help for a person with anorexia can make a difference. Professional treatment should be sought when the eating behaviors begin having a destructive impact on physical and mental health. Individuals with anorexia may be resistant to seeking treatment, but families should be firmly encouraging and supportive in getting therapy started as soon as possible.

At Silber Psychological Services, we have therapists who have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders. A thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis is the first step. When treatment is recommended, establishment of normal weight and truly healthy, balanced eating patterns are the first priorities. Psychological, social and any family issues which may also be in existence are subsequently addressed.

The therapist helps the client replace destructive and unhealthy thoughts, behaviors and coping strategies with positive and healthy ones. Therapists can also help family members to better understand the client’s disorder and learn new techniques for responding. A multidisciplinary team may often be needed to provide the best treatment results. Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, and Group Therapy often occur simultaneously. Some clients may benefit from medication and/or consultation with a specialized nutritionist. The process of recovery is usually long-term, difficult and fraught with complications, but the journey back to health can be enormously gratifying for the client and family.

Favorite Links:

National Eating Disorders Association

BEDA-Binge Eating Disorder Association