Do You Suffer From a Compulsive Eating Disorder?

That question bears repeating: do you suffer from a compulsive eating disorder? If so, you are not alone. You do not have to face your trial unaided. There is treatment available that really does help, and plenty of it.

A "compulsive eating disorder" can cover a wide range, but usually refers to overeating. Binge eating is the most common form. It consists of long sessions of stuffing in as much food — often high in fat and sugars — as possible.

Social embarrassment is the least of the serious problems that result. (Not that it's a negligible issue, either.) Heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes, bone problems, and more are all much more likely. And, despite the high calorie intake, energy is often lower, too — from both depression and nutrient imbalance.

The roots of binge eating and other disorders are complex and varied, as are those people who suffer from them.

There is some evidence for a genetic contribution that ups the odds. But the chief causes are psychological: low self-esteem, irrational attempts to overcome anxiety with food, poor mood management, and more.

There are social factors, too, not surprisingly. Feelings of shame are often encouraged by harsh judgments from parents or peers. Common ideals of appearance are sometimes difficult to attain, leading to frustration and guilt. Emphasis on the value of sports to the near-exclusion of intellectual activities can worsen the pressure.

Apart from obesity, the results are very often depression, high blood pressure, joint pain and more. Suicidal thoughts are more common among those suffering from a compulsive eating disorder.

Fortunately, no one has to try to overcome a compulsive eating all by herself or himself. There is an abundance of treatment options, offering a variety of approaches, schedules, and costs.

There are university research programs that seek volunteers. Sometimes, they even pay the participants. There are community organizations, free clinics, and more available in many cities. There are numerous for-profit clinics that accept insurance or have flexible payment plans. There are many online plans to add a self-help element to the program.

In short, there is always a way to afford treatment for a compulsive eating disorder.

All those options are available in a variety of forms, too. Some offer group counseling, others emphasize one-on-one session. Some cater to those who need a tough-love approach. Others are more humanistic or stress compassion and forgiveness. Some have a fairly analytic approach, delving into the roots of the behavior. Others are more forward looking and concentrate on action.

In other words, recognizing that one size does not fit all, there is a method for everyone.

The final thing anyone suffering from a compulsive eating disorder should learn is that they are not alone in another sense. There are many others who also suffer from binge eating, bulimia, and other compulsive behaviors.

Often, there are more than you might suspect. Studies of the subject vary, but numbers like 1.5-3% of teen girls in large cities suffering are not uncommon. Out of a population of 1,000,000 that may be as many as 2,000 girls. (Assuming half the population is female and 20% are teens, taking 2% as a midrange of those with an eating disorder.)

If you suspect you have a compulsive eating disorder, don't think you have to suffer. Seek treatment. It's there and it can help you become healthy again.