Understanding and Supporting Those with Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition. This blog series aims to provide a clear understanding of BED, including what it means, who’s at risk, the dangers of bingeing, treatment options, and how to seek support or help someone who might be struggling.
The prevalence of eating disorder symptoms is rising, with weekly binge eating increasing almost six-fold since the late 1990s. Studies suggest that equal numbers of males and females experience BED, making it the third most common eating disorder in Australia, affecting 21% of those with eating disorders (Paying the Price 2024).
What is Binge Eating Disorder?
Imagine feeling an overwhelming urge to eat large amounts of food in a short period, often in secret, and feeling powerless to stop, even if you want to. This is the reality for many people with BED. These episodes are typically followed by intense guilt and shame. Other signs include eating rapidly, eating when not hungry, and eating past the point of fullness.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of BED isn’t known, but it’s believed to result from a mix of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Common risk factors include:
- Family history of eating disorders or mental health conditions
- History of depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues
- Frequent dieting and restrictive eating patterns
- Experiencing stressful or traumatic events
Warning Signs
Recognising the warning signs can help in seeking timely support. Signs include:
- Physical: Feeling tired, poor sleep, gut issues like bloating or constipation
- Mental: Preoccupation with food, low self-esteem, shame, increased anxiety or depression
- Behavioral: Hoarding food, secretive eating, social withdrawal, increased anxiety around social eating
The Impact of Binge Eating Disorder
BED affects individuals physically, emotionally, and socially. It can lead to weight fluctuations, high cholesterol and blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health complications. Emotionally, it often coexists with conditions like depression and anxiety. Socially, individuals may withdraw from social situations due to shame and embarrassment about their eating habits.
Seeking Help and Offering Support
Binge Eating Disorder is a challenging condition, but by understanding BED, we can support those affected and promote their journey toward recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with BED, seek help from healthcare professionals who can provide the right support. Remember, you’re not alone, and recovery is possible.
At Myrtle Oak Clinic, we offer compassionate and comprehensive support for individuals battling BED. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing personalised care and effective treatment options. Remember, you are not alone, and recovery is possible.
