An eating disorder is a psychiatric disorder where a person faces an inability to control episodes of eating, during which huge amounts of food are consumed in a short period, followed by feelings of guilt, shame, and emptiness.
The good news? You can get better.
Binge eating disorder: what is it?
Overeating is simply one part of this disorder. Such episodes involve having huge portions at least once a week for over three months. People who suffer tend to eat alone and feel intense guilt later.
It often involves:
- Eating fast or to the point of discomfort,
- Feeling repulsed or guilty after eating,
- Eating in secret so that one would know
- Throwing up immediately
You can feel numb during an episode because the mind has presumably been working on some very complex issues.
There are several causes for an eating disorder. Some of these might include:
- Emotional Stress: Sometimes, food just provides a quick outlet from anxiety, depression, or feelings of loneliness.
- History of Dieting: Strict dieting from a young age can often develop in an eating disorder
- Negative Body Image: People who have grown up with a lot of negativity surrounding their body image can often develop such issues to cope with it.
- Trauma or Abuse: A History of emotional, physical, or sexual trauma has often been connected with an eating disorder.
Binge Eating Disorder and Treatment: What Works?
Treatment of an eating disorder is not simply about “eating less”. It is about understanding your relationship with food, emotions, and self-worth.
Here is what treatment typically involves:
1. A Mindful Eating Practice
The ultimate purpose of mindful eating is to slow down and pay close attention to what is going on in our bodies.
Working with a registered dietitian to establish balanced eating habits and overcome unhealthy cycles of dieting is another important element. Nourishment and stability should be the focus, not losing weight.
3. Body Image Work
Being positive and aware of your body and its healthy needs is equally vital. Practice body neutrality and self-compassion for a better outlook on your body. Seek help from a therapist if being alone seems overwhelming. It’s okay!
Recovery Is Possible for You—and You Deserve It
Right now, you might feel stuck in harmful cycles of shame, secrecy, and guilt. But recovery is possible, and you’ve got this!
Healing from binge eating disorder does not mean that you will never have another struggle; you will learn to manage triggers, be kind to yourself, and choose nourishment over punishment.
Start small: journal about how you feel before the binge, reach out for a therapist, or even have your meals distraction-free. Small steps!
Ready to Transform Your Relationship with Food?
At Eating Enlightenment, we’re here to support your journey toward peace, balance, and self-compassion. Through mindful journaling, emotional insight, and powerful tools, you’ll gain clarity around your eating patterns and discover how to heal—without judgment or restriction.
Start today with the Eating Enlightenment App and explore the Enlighten Eats Course to deepen your journey.
Because a better relationship with food begins within.
Visit Eating Enlightenment to take your first step.