The psychologist explains the relationship between this disorder and mental health and how to treat it correctly
Binge eating is a complex problem that affects many people around the world. To effectively face this challenge it is essential to understand what it is and how it can impact the lives of those who face it. Often stigmatized, this condition can be a source of suffering for both the person and their family.
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Reality shows that uncontrolled eating is a health problem that deserves attention. According to data from the Brazilian Psychiatric Association, it is estimated that in Brazil about 2% of the population suffers from binge eating during their lifetime.
Furthermore, research reveals that the majority of people dealing with this disorder do not seek professional help, which highlights the importance of raising awareness about this condition and the resources available for treatment.
What is binge eating?
According to psychologist Vanessa Gebrim, a specialist in clinical psychology, uncontrolled eating is characterized by the need to consume large quantities of food, even when you are not physically hungry.
“These episodes can be intense, often accompanied by an overwhelming feeling of lack of control. To be considered binge eating, these episodes must occur at least two or more times per week,” he explains.
Origins of binge eating
Uncontrolled eating has deep roots in emotional and behavioral factors. Often, people devote yourself to food as a way to deal with difficult emotions such as stress, anxiety, loneliness and sadness.
“During binge episodes, emotions are often dulled and food becomes a relief mechanism for these negative feelings. Social isolation, sadness and guilt often accompany binge eating, making it a complex condition,” explains the psychologist.
Symptoms of binge eating
The symptoms of binge eating are varied, but they all involve an overwhelming feeling of lack of control and inability to stop eating food. According to the psychologist, the main symptoms include:
- Eating faster than normal;
- Eat when you are not hungry or continue to eat even when you are full;
- Eating in secret;
- Feeling sad or guilty about eating.
“Binge eating can affect physical appearance, have emotional consequences and have a serious impact on a person’s social interaction,” explains Vanessa Gebrim. According to the specialist, this happens because the patient may be ashamed or afraid of eating uncontrollably in front of other people.
Triggers for compulsions
The compulsion is often triggered by traumatic events or drastic emotional changes that affect mental health. Emotional changes such as the end of a relationship, uncomfortable situations and anguish are linked to binge eating.
“When food is used as emotional support, we tend to eliminate frustrations, sadness and stress from our diet. Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and trauma can also trigger symptoms of eating disorder. Not being satisfied with the way your body looks is one of the risk factors for binge eating. This problem is more common among adolescents and young people, as their emotional structure is still being formed”, reveals Vanessa Gebrim.
Influences of external factors
The fact that mental health is so tied to our eating habits is directly linked to the centuries-old creation of a non-existent and toxic ideal of beauty. Constantly trying to fit beauty standards can also lead to the development of other eating problems such as bulimia and anorexia.
“New diets appear continuously on social networks and in the media, followed by models and actresses, most of the time very thin, who associate thinness with health. However, this is a distorted idea of ​​a healthy body and the deprivation of eating with the aim of losing weight can generate episodes of compulsion”, underlines the psychologist.
Treatments for binge eating
In addition to medical monitoring, it is related to the recovery of patients suffering from this disorder rebuild your self-esteem. “The best method is to undergo psychotherapy and also attend support groups. When you discover that you are not alone – counting on a network of people who understand and welcome you – you will renew your strength to deal with binge eating,” he advises. However, support from family and friends is essential to loving your body again.
“Make yourself available to help: in many cases there may be a need to temporarily reduce food at home which causes possible triggering factors in those who binge eat, and this changes – a lot – the routine at home. So be patient, and respecting this period will be fundamental”, explains the psychologist, who adds: “Do you know that pudding that the family likes so much? That trip to that bakery? Perhaps it is a very delicate factor for the person being treated. How about talking about the family menu and getting to the agreements? This can also be built in a session with the nutritionist”, concludes Vanessa Gebrim.
By Isabella Rocha
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
