Binge Eating Disorder: Recovery Begins With Compassion | Stanford

Summary

Dr. Rachel Goldstein, an adolescent medicine specialist at Stanford University, addresses binge eating disorder (BED), emphasizing it's a treatable medical condition, not a character flaw. She explains BED's prevalence and symptoms, including loss of control over eating. Dr. Goldstein encourages seeking help, dispelling fears of judgment, and highlights the importance of compassionate self-acknowledgment. The video outlines the diagnostic process, including physical checks and discussions about eating habits and mental health, leading to a personalized treatment plan focused on psychotherapy to foster a healthier relationship with food and the body.

Takeaways

• 🍽️ Binge eating disorder is a serious medical condition, not a lifestyle choice.
• 🧬 It is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors.
• 👩‍⚕️ Dr. Rachel Goldstein is an adolescent medicine doctor specializing in treating teens and young adults with eating disorders.
• 📈 Binge eating disorder is more common than anorexia or bulimia.
• 🔄 Unlike anorexia or bulimia, binge eating disorder does not involve behaviors to limit weight gain such as purging or excessive exercise.
• 🚫 People with binge eating disorder feel a loss of control over their eating during binge episodes.
• 💔 Feelings of guilt and shame often accompany binge eating, but it's important to remember it's not the individual's fault.
• 🗣️ Open communication with trusted adults is crucial for seeking help and support.
• 🩺 A physician specializing in eating disorders will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including physical checks and blood work.
• 🧠 Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for binge eating disorder, focusing on developing a healthier relationship with food and one's body.
• 🌟 Recovery is possible, with psychotherapy showing a consistent success rate in helping individuals overcome binge eating disorder.

Q & A

What is binge eating disorder?

Binge eating disorder is a serious medical condition characterized by episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often accompanied by a feeling of loss of control over eating, and can be associated with many psychiatric disorders.

How is binge eating disorder different from anorexia or bulimia?

Unlike anorexia or bulimia, binge eating disorder does not involve behaviors to limit weight gain such as purging or excessive exercise. However, similar to anorexia and bulimia, it is a disease where individuals may feel they've lost control over their eating.

What are some common behaviors during a binge eating episode?

During binge episodes, people may continue eating despite feeling uncomfortably full, eat large amounts of food even when not hungry, or eat more quickly than normal.

Why might individuals with binge eating disorder feel guilty or eat in secret?

Individuals with binge eating disorder might feel guilty or eat in secret because they cannot control their eating and may fear judgment or shame from others.

What is the first step in treating binge eating disorder according to Dr. Rachel Goldstein?

The first step in treating binge eating disorder is acknowledging that you're struggling with your eating and deserve to get well.

Why is it important to have open conversations about binge eating disorder?

Open conversations about binge eating disorder are important because they can lead to understanding, compassion, and support, which are crucial for seeking help and treatment.

What kind of professional should one see for binge eating disorder treatment?

One should ideally meet with a trained physician in eating disorders, such as an adolescent medicine doctor or a specialist in the field, for treatment.

What are some typical assessments done during an initial appointment for binge eating disorder?

During an initial appointment, a physician may check the patient's height and weight, order basic blood work to rule out other conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, and have in-depth discussions about eating habits and binging episodes.

What is the primary goal of treatment for binge eating disorder?

The primary goal of treatment for binge eating disorder is to reduce binge eating episodes and address any other contributing problems such as anxiety or depression.

What is the primary treatment method for binge eating disorder?

The primary treatment for binge eating disorder is psychotherapy, which involves working with a trained mental health provider to develop a healthier relationship with one's body and food.

What is the significance of finding the right therapist for binge eating disorder treatment?

Finding the right therapist is significant because the therapeutic relationship is a working relationship that may involve trial and error, and it's important to find what works best for the individual's unique needs and circumstances.