Binge Eating Disorder

Since May of 2013 Binge Eating Disorder is an official eating disorder diagnosis when it was added to the DSM-5. DSM stands for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the bible of psychiatrists, psychologist and therapists in the mental health industry. Prior to this distinction binge eating was lumped in with non-specific “EDNOS” (eating disorder not otherwise specified).

Binge eating is actually the most common form of eating disorder in the US. According to the DSM-5 it is defined as:

Recurring episodes of eating significantly more food in a short period of time than most people would eat under similar circumstances, with episodes marked by feelings of lack of control. Someone with binge eating disorder may eat too quickly, even when he or she is not hungry. The person may have feelings of guilt, embarrassment, or disgust and may binge eat alone to hide the behavior. This disorder is associated with marked distress and occurs, on average, at least once a week over three months.

Binge eating disorder affects slightly more women than men, not surprising, with 3.5% of women and 2% of men, and 1.6% for adolescents of either sex. For women it is most likely to occur in early adulthood while men develop the eating disorder later in like, usually midlife. Race seems to play no part in the development of the disorder.

Interestingly most people who are obese do not have binge eating disorder but of those who do have BED 2/3rds are obese. Not so surprisingly people with BED are more anxious and suffer from depression more often.

Treatment for Binge Eating Disorder includes medications such as anti depressants such as SSRIs, cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy.

If you think you suffer from binge eating disorder or know someone who does please seek assistance right away. Like all eating disorders binge eating is a dangerous condition and rarely resolves on its own.