Binge eating disorder

Symptoms of binge eating disorder

Binges are often pre-planned and the person may buy ‘special’ binge foods.

The main symptom of binge eating disorder is eating very large amounts of food in a short time. This is often in an out-of-control way. But symptoms may also include:

• eating very fast during a binge
• eating until you feel uncomfortably full
• eating when you're not hungry
• eating alone or secretly
• feeling depressed, guilty, ashamed or disgusted after binge eating

If you recognise these symptoms in yourself or someone else, you should seek help, see section below.

Getting help for binge eating disorder

If you think you may have binge eating disorder, see your GP as soon as you can.

They will ask you questions about your eating habits and how you're feeling, and will check your weight and overall health.

If they think you may have binge eating disorder, or another eating disorder, your GP should refer you to an eating disorder specialist or team of specialists.

It can be very hard to admit you have a problem and to ask for help. It may make things easier if you bring a friend or loved one with you to your appointment.

You may also want to seek advice from an eating disorder support group such as Eating Disorders Association NI.

Getting help for someone else

If you're concerned that a family member or friend may have binge eating disorder, let them know you're worried about them and encourage them to see their GP. You could offer to go along with them.

Read more about talking to your child about eating disorders and supporting someone with an eating disorder.

Treatment for binge eating

With the right treatment and support, most people recover from binge eating disorder, but it may take time.

The main treatments for binge eating include:

• guided self-help programmes
• a type of talking therapy called cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – in group sessions or individual (one-on-one) sessions

Binge eating disorder often causes weight gain (though not always). This can lead to other health problems.

You shouldn't try to diet while you are having treatment as it can make your binge eating worse.

Causes of binge eating

It is not known exactly what causes binge eating disorder and other eating disorders. You may be more likely to get an eating disorder if:

• you or a member of your family has a history of eating disorders, depression, or alcohol or drug addiction
• you have been criticised for your eating habits, body shape or weight
• you are overly concerned with being slim, particularly if you also feel pressure from society or your job – for example, ballet dancers, jockeys, models or athletes
• you have anxiety, low self-esteem, an obsessive personality or are a perfectionist
• you have been sexually abused

• Find out more about binge eating disorder on the NHS website

More useful links

• How to use your health services
• Eating disorders