Getting Help for Binge Eating Disorder
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Woman worrying about her eating disorder Binge eating disorder (BED) affects many men and women across the globe. According to research, 3.5% of women and 2% of men will develop the condition at some point in their lives.1

BED can lead to serious complications, including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.3 But it is a treatable condition, and many people recover. Early detection and treatment greatly increase the chance of long-term recovery.

If you or someone you know needs help for binge eating disorder, read on to learn more about:


Understanding Binge Eating Disorder

To be diagnosed with binge eating disorder, a person must engage in a binge eating episode at least once per week for at least 3 months. During the episode, a person must eat a large portion of food within a short amount of time (e.g., a two-hour time period). The person must also display an inability to control eating despite a desire to do so.

The most common signs of binge eating disorder include:


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Where to Get Help for Binge Eating Disorder

Man seeking help for eating disorder Help for binge eating disorder comes in many forms. Some of the most common treatment options for a person with BED and similar eating disorders include:

If you need help choosing a treatment program, contact one of our recovery support advisors .


Deciding Between Binge Eating Treatment Options

With so many treatment choices, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you or your loved one. You can narrow down your options by considering the following factors.


How to Talk to Someone with Binge Eating Disorder

Woman thinking about eating disorder If you are concerned that someone you love may be struggling with binge eating disorder, it may be difficult to approach them. Many people aren’t sure how to help someone with binge eating problems and may be worried that they’ll say the wrong thing.

You can potentially eliminate misunderstandings and increase the chances that your loved one will be receptive to what you have to say by doing the following.2

If you or someone you love is ready to get help for binge eating disorder, call . Get clarity about your health with a Do I Have An Eating Disorder Quiz.


Helping Someone with Binge Eating Disorder

Don’t feel guilty if you aren’t sure how to help someone with binge eating disorder. Supporting a loved one with an eating disorder is a learning process.

Below are some tips for helping a loved one seek recovery.1


Find Binge Eating Treatment for a Friend or Family Member

If you or someone you love is struggling with binge eating disorder, recovery is possible. Feeling sad lately? Worried about your mental health? Take an online depression quiz and take the first step towards healing. For assistance finding a binge eating treatment program, contact a recovery support assistant at .

Read next: Binge Eating Disorder Symptoms, Causes, and Effects


Sources

[1]. National Eating Disorder Association. Parent Toolkit.

[2]. National Eating Disorders Collaboration. (2016). Approaching Someone You Care About.

[3]. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2016). Definition and facts for binge eating disorder.