Binge Eating Disorder
This week is eating disorder awareness week and I want take a little time to write about binge eating disorder in particular.
What is binge eating disorder?
Binge eating was recognised as an eating disorder in 2013. It is an eating disorder where people feel out of control and eat large amounts of food in a short space of time. This causes distress and often people feel ashamed and isolated.
It’s is important to understand that the behaviour is not a result of "lack of will power" or "greediness". Rather, this is the brain’s way to attempt emotional regulation in a moment of distress.
Common signs of BED:
- Eating a large amount of food in a short period of time, usually within any 2 hour period.
- Not able to stop eating or control how much food is consumed.
- Feeling distressed about the eating behaviour.
- Feeling depressed, guilty and ashamed.
How to get help for binge eating?
The earlier you get help the better chance you have to support yourself in healing your relationship with food.
It may be difficult to admit that you have BED but gaining clarity about it is the first step.
The next step is to ask for help. You may want to talk to a friend or a family member for more support. You can talk to your doctor or seek private counselling.
How does counselling for binge eating help?
Counselling can help you understand your eating by offering you a safe and non-judgemental place for you to explore your feelings, habits and beliefs about food.
It can also provide you with tools that empower you to have a more peaceful relationship with food.
If you have any questions or would like to explore how counselling can help you, please email me at jael@art-of-listening.co.uk to book a free no obligation 15 minute chat.