Binge eating deserves care, not judgment

A difficult experience to talk about

Feeling unable to control eating can be upsetting, especially when it is followed by shame or secrecy. You may have promised yourself that next time would be different, then wondered why the same distress returned. That experience deserves a conversation with someone trained to help.

Eating more than expected on one occasion does not automatically mean binge-eating disorder. A specialist considers the pattern, the sense of lost control, the distress involved, and other symptoms. An online article cannot make that diagnosis. [1]

What a professional needs to understand

NIMH describes binge-eating symptoms that can include eating unusually large amounts, eating rapidly or when not hungry, eating privately out of embarrassment, and feeling significant distress afterward. [2]

Rather than trying to score yourself against a checklist, explain what happens in your own words. For example: ‘Sometimes I feel unable to stop eating, and afterward I feel overwhelmed.’ Mention any attempts to compensate for eating as well, because these can change the clinical assessment and treatment needs.

Treatment is broader than willpower

NIDDK describes psychotherapy approaches used for binge-eating disorder, including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. Medication may be appropriate for some people, and a registered dietitian with relevant experience can help with eating patterns. A clinician should individualize those choices. [1]

If you are considering a diet or weight-management program, tell your healthcare professional about the binge eating first. Ask how the proposed plan will address loss of control and emotional distress, rather than judging success only by a number. [1]

Preparing for an appointment

Bring questions that matter to you: ‘How do you assess binge eating?’ ‘Who will help with nutrition concerns?’ ‘How will we know whether treatment is helping?’ You can also ask how care will be coordinated if you work with more than one professional.

You do not need to describe everything flawlessly. An honest starting point is enough to begin an assessment. Recovery is possible, and seeking help is a reasonable response to distress—not a personal failure. [2]

Explore care at Rumi Counseling

• Binge-eating therapy
• Eating disorder therapy at Rumi Counseling