As both a verb and a noun, the word “binge” used to carry quite acceptable; almost pleasant or even respectable connotations. Back then, all it meant was a period of excessive indulgence. A group of housewives treating themselves to a shopping binge or a group of kids at camp holding a midnight ice cream, candies and cake binge did little or no real harm to those involved in the activity. It might even be likened to a bonding experience.
Binging Today Is Usually Seen As A Problem.
It will become a problem when the binging becomes compulsive and occurs with great regularity. Unfortunately, changes in society and the way people live their lives today have created a scenario where activities like binge drinking, binge TV viewing and binge eating are becoming more widespread to the detriment of the lives of those who habitually indulge to excess. This is happening to such an extent that such addictions are now being seen by many as actual disorders.
Binge Eating Disorder
The problem has reached a point where binge eating has been officially defined as something that can be physically and mentally damaging to those so afflicted. It was first designated as “night eating disorder” following the 1959 research carried out by Albert Stunkard a research psychiatrist. It was renamed as “binge eating disorder” (or BED) when it was realized that the disorder can afflict people at any time of day or night. Although BED is amongst the most prevalent of adult eating disorders; it was only in 2013 that it was included in the American Psychiatric Association’s publication “Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-5”.
Symptoms
Unlike other eating disorders such as Bulimia nervosa, the binge eater makes no attempt to purge themselves of the excess food that they have consumed. Basically, they are regularly eating considerably more food over a relatively short time than would be considered normal; not necessarily every day but at least once a week. Their consumption is faster than normal and the tendency is to eat foods that are only considered healthy when eaten in moderation. They will probably eat alone and many feel guilty afterwards but say they simply could not stop themselves.
Anyone who feels these symptoms apply to them would be well advised to have their condition looked into by specialists at any of the binge eating treatment centers in San Francisco area. Advice and diagnoses does not always have to come from a psychiatrist or psychologist; many physicians, nutritionists and clinical social workers are qualified to diagnose and treat LED. Treatment might involve residential care but day care and outpatient treatments are also regularly used.
