Binge eating disorder (BED)

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious mental illness. People with binge eating disorder regularly have episodes of binge eating — at least once a week — in which they eat a large amount of food rapidly, over a short period. During these episodes, people can feel out of control and unable to stop eating.

People with binge eating disorder do not typically try to “compensate” for binge eating with behaviours such as vomiting or excessive exercise. As a result, some people with the condition may be in a larger body or at a higher weight, while others may be in a smaller body at a lower weight.

Binge eating disorder affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. It is one of the most common eating disorders, yet public awareness of it remains low. Just over half of the people who experience it are women.

People with binge eating disorder often feel ashamed or guilty about binge eating. This is often linked with high levels of distress, and binge eating can become a way of coping with difficult emotions. There are a number of signs and symptoms that suggest someone might have the condition and needs to seek help.

Symptoms of binge eating disorder#

The two key features of binge eating disorder are:

• recurrent binge eating episodes, in which a person eats a large amount of food in a relatively short time
• a sense of loss of control during these episodes — not being able to stop eating, even when uncomfortably full

These episodes happen frequently, involve more food than typical overeating, and are often accompanied by intense shame and guilt.

Physical symptoms#

• feeling tired and not sleeping well
• feeling bloated or constipated, or developing food intolerances
• changes in weight
• gastrointestinal problems
• cardiovascular problems

Psychological symptoms#

• preoccupation with eating, food, body shape or weight
• body dissatisfaction or concern about size, shape or weight
• sensitivity to comments about food, dieting, exercise or body image
• feelings of shame, guilt and self-loathing, especially after a binge
• feelings of extreme distress, sadness and anxiety, especially after a binge
• a distorted body image or extreme dissatisfaction with body shape
• low self-esteem and depression
• anxiety or irritability

Behavioural symptoms#

• periods of uncontrolled, impulsive or continuous eating
• eating until uncomfortably full and feeling unable to stop
• eating alone or in secret, and other secretive behaviours around food
• unexplained disappearance of food, or hiding and hoarding food
• evading questions about eating and weight
• avoiding social situations or becoming more withdrawn
• spending large amounts of money on food, or shoplifting food
• self-harming behaviour, substance use and suicidal thoughts

Long-term effects#

Untreated, ongoing binge eating disorder can lead to many physical and mental health problems, including:

• cardiovascular disease
• type 2 diabetes
• high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol
• arthritis
• social isolation and loneliness
• depression or anxiety

Diagnosis and treatment#

If you think you, or someone you know, might have binge eating disorder, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can start to recover, and the more effective treatment can be. Early treatment is the best way to support a full recovery. The journey can be difficult, but it is possible with the right support around you.

A doctor with experience supporting people with eating disorders can be a good first point of contact. Treatment needs to address both your physical and mental health. Once binge eating disorder is diagnosed, your doctor will bring together a team of healthcare professionals best suited to help you. This might include a:

• doctor
• psychiatrist
• psychologist
• dietitian
• family therapist
• social worker

A range of psychological treatments is available for eating disorders. Research indicates that some of the most effective therapies for binge eating disorder include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – Enhanced (CBT-E)
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy – Guided Self Help (CBT-GSH)
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Your healthcare professionals will ask several questions to help you understand the link between the way you think and your eating behaviour.

Support groups can be a helpful additional source of support, alongside treatment from healthcare professionals. Other options include medication for any physical conditions you might have and, in some cases, medication for your mental health, such as antidepressants.

If you are in distress or feel unsafe, reach out for help straight away — contact your doctor, a trusted person, or your local crisis or emergency service.

Key points#

• Binge eating disorder is one of the most common eating disorders, yet awareness of it is low
• A number of signs and symptoms suggest someone might have the condition and needs to seek help
• The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can recover, and the more effective treatment can be
• Treatment needs to address both your physical and mental health
• Early treatment is the best way to support a full recovery

Where to get help#