Binge eating is characterized by bouts of extensive overeating without purging. People who are obese are the most likely to have the condition. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 2 percent of the total population suffers from binge eating disorder, while the condition is prevalent in about 8 percent of the obese population.
Step 1
Find a therapist who specializes in binge eating disorders. Most clinicians who work with eating disorders practice cognitive behavioral therapy, which addresses the underlying issues that cause the behavior. They address the patient's attitudes toward eating as well as issues surrounding body image and self-esteem.
Step 2
Consider behavioral therapy that teaches patients how to handle stress without turning to food. The Mayo Clinic reports that when patients learn how to regulate their own emotions and work on mending important relationships, the desire to binge will be reduced.
Step 3
Take antidepressants to relieve the anxiety pressures often common among binge eaters. While the effectiveness of treating binge eating disorders with medication is controversial, the Mayo Clinic reports that when combined with cognitive therapy, the patient has a higher chance for success. The drug Meridia, used to treat obesity, also has shown some success in alleviating binge-eating symptoms.
Step 4
Look for mentors and role models with whom you can talk to about the disorder and who will support your efforts to change. Groups such as Overeaters Anonymous often provide a nurturing environment where people with similar disorders meet to share their experience with eating disorders. You can find a sponsor or buddy to work the program with you, who will be someone who understands your issues and agrees to be there when you are in crisis.
Step 5
Get to know which kinds of situations are triggers for overeating and try to avoid those settings, at least until you are well into treatment and therapy. Consider which parties, buffets, family gatherings and other social settings have produced uncomfortable feelings in the past and make an excuse to skip the event, especially when you are new to recovery.
Tips and Warnings
- Eat a healthy breakfast every day. Many people who have binge eating disorder start their days with the promise not to overeat that day and skip breakfast as a start on the promise. Later hunger and low blood sugar levels can trigger a binge-eating episode.
- Avoid strict diets that suggest highly restrictive caloric intakes because dieting can be a major trigger for binge eating. Be wary of treatments that focus more on the extra weight you are carrying versus the therapy that can help you treat the whole disease.
Things You'll Need
- Medication
- Breakfast
