Binge-Eating Disorder (BED)

Eating DisordersBinge Eating Disorder (BED)DepressionAnxiety
Written By Stacy Armstrong - Flores

Whole-Person Education for Healthier Minds & Healthier Bodies

Who Can Develop Binge-Eating Disorder?

Binge-Eating Disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder. It is a serious medical and mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food while feeling a loss of control. Unlike bulimia nervosa, binge-eating episodes are not regularly followed by purging behaviors. BED is treatable, and recovery is possible.

  • Children, adolescents, and adults

  • Females and males

  • People of all body sizes and weights

  • Individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or a family history may have a higher risk

Common Signs & Symptoms

  • Eating unusually large amounts of food within a short period

  • Feeling unable to stop eating or control how much is eaten

  • Eating much more rapidly than normal

  • Eating until feeling uncomfortably full

  • Eating when not physically hungry

  • Eating alone due to embarrassment

  • Feelings of guilt, shame, or distress after binge episodes

Possible Health Risks

  • Weight gain or obesity (not present in everyone)

  • High blood pressure

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • High cholesterol

  • Sleep apnea

  • Heart disease

  • Depression, anxiety, and reduced self-esteem

How Is BED Treated?

  • Comprehensive medical and mental health evaluation

  • Nutrition counseling

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based therapies

  • Medication when clinically appropriate

  • Treatment of co-occurring mental health conditions

  • Development of healthy coping skills and eating patterns

When to Seek Help

  • Binge eating occurs regularly or feels out of control

  • Eating behaviors interfere with work, school, or relationships

  • You avoid social situations because of eating habits

  • You experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide—seek emergency care immediately

Recovery Is Possible

Recovery does not require perfection. With compassionate, evidence-based treatment, many people learn healthier coping skills, improve their relationship with food, and regain control of their lives.

SHINE Reminder

Food should nourish your body—not control your life. Asking for help is a courageous first step toward healing.



Ready to Find Relief?
Book an appointment with SHINE Primary & Psych Care
Strength • Healing • Inspire • Navigate • Empower
Compassionate Primary Care • Mental Health • Whole-Person Wellness

This handout is for educational general awareness purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace an evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.

Stacy Armstrong - Flores

With over 30 years of healthcare experience, I have dedicated my career to caring for individuals across all stages of life and in a variety of healthcare settings, including primary care, behavioral health, hospice, home health, nursing homes, and Veteran care. My journey from CNA to LVN, RN, BSN, FNP, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner has given me a unique understanding of the connection between physical and mental wellness.

I believe in treating the whole person—not just the symptoms. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to heal, grow, and achieve lasting wellness.

https://ShinePrimaryPsych.com
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