Binge-eating disorder is a serious eating disorder and mental health condition, just like anorexia or bulimia. It can affect all kinds of people, no matter their age, gender or cultural background. Unlike anorexia or bulimia, binge-eating disorder (also known as BED) is not associated with compensatory behaviours like exercising a lot post-binge or forcing oneself to throw up.

Characteristics of binge-eating disorder:

• Eating a lot of food (or what is perceived as a large amount of food) in a small space of time, this is known as ‘binging’
• Frequently binging
• Feeling a loss of control when eating, and being unable to stop
• Eating to the point of nausea
• A sense of guilt or shame around eating habits
• Very specific eating habits (like eating really fast or eating even when full, to the point where it’s physically unpleasant)
• Secret eating (due to feelings of shame or guilt, someone with BED might eat only when they’re alone)

Binge-eating episodes usually occur when someone is stressed, emotional, lonely, or dealing with negative self-talk. These kinds of eating behaviours are often used as a coping mechanism for dealing with difficult life situations. 

To learn more about the causes and impacts of Binge-eating disorder you can watch this video. 

Why do people suffer from Binge-eating disorder?

Just like anorexia and bulimia, BED is a mental health issue and those with this condition will usually have underlying psychological issues (for instance anxiety or depression) which are strongly linked to their eating behaviours. Like all other mental health conditions, the causes can often be complex and difficult to pinpoint.

Stress, family issues, trauma, poor self-esteem, grief, loss or abuse can contribute to the onset of mental health issues like BED. Click here to read more about the warning signs of Binge-Eating Disorder & other info by the National Eating Disorder Collaboration.

Is it possible to recover from binge-eating disorder?

Yes. But it will take time, effort and a considered approach. With the help of a trained professional, you will be able to unpack the different causes of the condition and also develop a plan that suits you, and your needs. Finding the right treatment plan is really important as it will help to prevent the possibility of a relapse.

You can watch this video to learn about more treatments and types of support for binge-eating disorder. 

Where to get help

If you think that you might have an eating disorder, it’s important to seek professional support:

• Your GP will be able to help and refer you to a specialist who helps people overcome conditions like this all the time. 
  • If you don’t feel comfortable speaking with a trusted adult, check out our post on ‘Going to the Doctor on Your Own’ for more info on making an appointment and finding a doctor that suits you
• Visit the National Eating Disorder Collaboration website for more information on help in your local area
• Beyond Blue is another free, confidential counselling service, with trained professionals available to talk through your situation.
• The Butterfly Club has wonderful resources and a national helpline: 1800 33 4673. You can also chat online or email.
• Kid’s helpline and Lifeline are also wonderful resources.