Of course, the DSM has its criteria for Binge Eating Disorder, but this is how I would describe Binge Eating Disorder, or BED, as a therapist specializing in binge eating disorder and emotional eating. And if you're in Arizona, Idaho, Montana, or Florida, looking to heal binge eating, schedule a consult to see if we're a good fit! I love helping Gen Z & Millenial folks heal their relationship with food and experience a greater sense of self acceptance.
What do you mean by "binge eating" ?
It's important to note, coping by eating, overindulgence, or eating with our emotions is a part of normative eating and may even occur often or by choice. Humans are emotional beings that experience cravings and urges. Food is not just fuel but comfort, community, and belonging.
However, if you are frequently burnt out by binge eating, it may be helpful to consider the pros and cons. How much does the behavior bother you and how much does it impede your ability to experience meaning, fulfillment, and connection in your life? How much does it impede you from participating in life?
In binge eating...
Food is the primary channel for getting our needs met/ Self soothing.
For many reasons, we feel unable to use our voice or express our emotions in our lives & relationships and food becomes the outlet for that. This often then produces physiological effects that reinforces the binge eating & types of foods regularly chosen.
Ironically, you are probably binge eating because you feel a lack of meaning, fulfilment, or connection in your life.
Your needs aren’t being met. The cycle then continues because binge eating reinforces more felings of loneliness and unmet needs.
Cultural Perspectives:
In some cultures, the ability to indulge is an honor, it means there is abudnance. A big, beautiful meal has been provided. To eat abundantly means love, care, and resources are available and were provided. Hospitality. Love & belonging. Community. Family.
To rest or sleep afterwards can also be viewed as natural, luxorious or abudnant even.
What's Needed: Nourishment
We cope ahead and interrupt binge eating episodes by regularly practicing nourishment, such as not skipping meals, packing a snack, reconnecting to hobbies and interests that expand our sense of self, and confiding in social supports.
Some form of restriction always precedes a binge, and we interrupt that cycle when we practice re-nourishment, when & where we can <3
Accepting Clients Now: Binge Eating & Emotional Eating Healing for Cycle Breakers
If you're in Arizona, Idaho, Montana, or Florida, looking to heal binge eating, schedule a consult to see if we're a good fit! I love helping Gen Z & Millenial folks heal their relationship with food and experience a greater sense of self acceptance <3 I look hope to hear from you!
Schedule a consult with Lindsay Valley, LCSW, specializing in binge eating, astrology & tarot informed
Check out this post on Instagram: @lindsaywritesfood