1. Treatment for Binge Eating
Binge eating is one of the hallmarks of eating disorders affecting people on both sides of the spectrum. Bulimics eat in binges and then purge to not gain weight, while overeaters who are obese can't stop eating, no matter how big they get or how much it affects their health. In treatment, binge eaters learn new behaviors. They learn what constitutes a healthy eating pattern and what healthy, normal meals look like. They practice eating properly and are watched and monitored. While in treatment, binge eaters also discover their triggers, the emotional reasons that may have caused them to turn to food for comfort in the first place.
2. Reinforce new Behaviors
Follow up is very important for binge eaters new out of treatment. The pressures of the real world, coupled with independence and no one to monitor their meals, leaves them vulnerable for relapse. Families of recovering binge eaters need to know the signs of a relapse so they can confront the overeater and tell the treatment team that is providing follow up, if there is one. Preferably, a binge eater will continue with therapy to work on the emotional issues and serve as someone to whom the binge eater is accountable. While friends and family can't change their lives to walk on eggshells around a binge eater fresh out of recovery, they can be a little more sensitive and not tease or harass the person.
3. Clean House
Once the binge eater has identified the triggers that might cause a relapse, those things should be removed form the environment whenever possible. If reading beauty magazines triggers feelings of poor self image, then get rid of them and don't buy anymore. If former friends still practice their bulimic or anorexic behavior, then those people should be avoided until the binge eater is stronger and can help instead of being drawn back into old behaviors.
4. Change Your Mind
As with any recovering addict, whether food, drugs or gambling was the downfall, it is paramount to develop new ways of thinking. Find other activities that are enjoyable. Have fun so that you won't feel deprived all the time. Seek a spiritual avenue that works for you, whether it is a church, books or silent meditation, to give you some relief. Think happy thoughts when doom and gloom set in or when you find your thoughts turning to food. Surround yourself with positive influences in all you do, from the books you read to friends you hang out with.
