As we celebrate Men’s Health
Week, we must highlight issues often unspoken among men. One such issue is Binge Eating Disorder (BED). BED is a severe, but treatable eating disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. Unlike other eating disorders, individuals with BED do not engage in compensatory behaviours like purging.
What is Binge Eating Disorder?
Binge Eating Disorder is the most common eating disorder in the UK. You might have BED if you:
- Have periods where you eat much more rapidly than normal.
- Eat until you feel uncomfortably full.
- Eat large amounts of food, even when you’re not physically hungry.
- Eat alone because you feel embarrassed or ashamed by how much you are eating. You may also hide the evidence of how much you’ve eaten.
- Feeling disgusted with yourself, depressed, or very guilty afterwards.
- Gaining a lot of weight in a relatively short period of time.
These behaviours often lead to significant distress and problems in areas such as work, home, and social life.
The Statistics of Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder affects people of all genders, ages, races, and backgrounds. However, it often goes unrecognised in men due to stigma and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders. Recent data suggests that around 3.4 million people in the UK have an eating disorder. Among these, approximately 22% are affected by BED, translating to roughly 748,000 individuals. 50% of those with BED are men.
That’s 374,000 men, just like you, struggling with this awful illness.
Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder
Recognising the symptoms of BED is the first step toward seeking help and recovery. Symptoms include:
- Frequent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food in a relatively short period of time.
- Feeling a lack of control while bingeing.
- Eating even when you’re full or not hungry.
- Eating rapidly during binge episodes.
- Eating until you’re uncomfortably full.
- Frequently eating alone or in secret.
- Feeling depressed, disgusted, ashamed, guilty, or upset about your eating habits.
- Fluctuations in weight.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to seek professional help.
Treatment for Binge Eating Disorder
At The Eating Disorder Recovery Clinic, we provide a personalised, comprehensive approach to
recovery. Our treatment pathways are designed to offer holistic and effective care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for you. Here’s an overview of the treatment options we offer:
- One-to-One Therapy:
One-to-one therapy with an eating disorder specialist therapist is the cornerstone of our treatment. We use gold-standard therapy approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), with other therapy approaches. Our aim is to give you practical tools to reduce binges while helping you to understand and resolve the underlying causes that triggered BED and are keeping it going.
- Dietitian Support:
Our specialist dietitians work closely with clients to create personalised eating plans. Our aim is to establish regular eating patterns and foster a healthier relationship with food. Working with a dietitian is completely optional.
- Medical and Psychiatric Support:
Binge eating disorder has physical risks. You may also be struggling with co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety. We will work with your GP or psychiatrist to make sure that your physical health is being monitored appropriately and that any medications are at an effective dose.
- Online Therapy and Support:
Understanding the need for accessible care, we offer online therapy sessions and resources. This ensures that individuals can receive the help they need from the comfort of their own homes, making treatment more convenient and flexible.
At The Eating Disorder Recovery Clinic, we believe in a personalised and compassionate approach to BED treatment. Our team of specialists is dedicated to supporting each individual on their journey to recovery, providing the tools and guidance needed to achieve lasting change.
During Men’s Health Week, let’s break the silence surrounding men and eating disorders. Binge Eating Disorder is a serious condition that affects a significant number of men in the UK. By raising awareness, recognising symptoms, and promoting effective treatments, we can support those in need and foster a culture of understanding and support.
