What it is
Binge Eating Disorder is recurrent binge episodes (loss of control while eating unusually large amounts) without regular compensatory behaviors. People often eat rapidly, until uncomfortably full, or when not physically hungry, followed by guilt or shame. BED is the most common eating disorder and is highly treatable.
BED occurs across all body sizes. Health risks relate to metabolic strain, mood, and self-esteem—not only weight.
Common signs and symptoms
- Binge episodes at least weekly for 3+ months
- Eating in secret; distress after binges; frequent dieting attempts
- Emotional eating tied to stress, loneliness, or boredom
- Fluctuating weight; sleep and mood issues common
Why it happens
- Restrictive dieting increases biological hunger and cravings
- Emotional coping via food; conditioned relief from eating
- All-or-nothing thinking about food and weight
What helps
- Therapies with strong evidence
- CBT-E and CBT for BED: regular eating schedule, reduce triggers, flexible thinking
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): addresses relationship and role stressors driving binges
- Guided self-help CBT can be effective for many
- Nutrition and lifestyle
- Structured, consistent meals/snacks; include satisfying foods; end “forbidden food” cycles
- Sleep, activity you enjoy, stress management
- Medications
- Lisdexamfetamine is FDA-approved for moderate–severe BED
- SSRIs can reduce binge frequency in some people
- Weight considerations
- Focus first on stopping binges and improving health markers and mood
- Weight-focused goals, if desired, come later and should avoid restriction cycles
Levels of care: outpatient to IOP/PHP if severe impairment.
When to seek help now
- Frequent loss of control eating with significant distress
- Co-occurring depression, self-harm thoughts, or substance use
- Medical concerns (diabetes, hypertension) worsening with binge patterns
How to talk to a clinician
- “I have recurrent binge eating without purging. I’d like CBT-E or IPT, nutrition support, and to consider lisdexamfetamine or SSRIs if appropriate.”
Resources for readers in the USA
- Immediate help: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741)
- Find care: Psychology Today (eating disorders/CBT-E/IPT); NEDA Helpline; FindTreatment.gov
- Self-help: Guided CBT for BED workbooks; peer support groups
- Low-cost/community: Community Health Centers (findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov); 211
- Insurance tips: Ask about coverage for CBT-E/IPT, IOP/PHP, medication, dietitian visits; copay/coinsurance, deductible, out-of-pocket max
Disclaimer: Educational information, not a diagnosis. If in crisis, use the resources above.