Get the Support You Need to Overcome Binge Eating Disorder with a Therapist in London UK
Binge eating disorder can be a debilitating condition, impacting those who suffer from it in many different ways. Fortunately, there is help available. As an eating disorder therapist in London who specialises in binge eating disorder I can provide you with the support and guidance you need to take control of your condition and develop more supportive habits. This article will explore the benefits of working with myself as an eating disorder therapist in London.
What Is Binge Eating Disorder?
Binge eating disorder (BED) is an eating disorder characterised by episodes of uncontrollable, excessive eating over a short period of time. People with BED often eat large amounts of food in a short period of time, even if they are not physically hungry. They may also eat until they are uncomfortably full, or eat alone out of shame or embarrassment. People with BED may also feel a loss of control during these episodes and experience feelings of guilt, depression, and shame afterwards.
What causes binge eating disorder?
The exact cause of binge eating disorder is unknown. However, there are several factors that may contribute to the development of this disorder, including biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Biological factors include genetic predisposition, abnormalities in brain chemistry, and changes in hormones. Psychological factors include stress, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and a history of trauma. Environmental factors include having access to an abundance of food and being exposed to messages that promote unhealthy eating habits.
Prevalence of Binge Eating Disorder
The prevalence of binge eating disorder (BED) is estimated to be approximately 1.6% of the adult population in the UK. However, this number is likely to be an underestimation due to the lack of awareness and recognition of the disorder. BED is more common in women than men, with an estimated prevalence of 2.8% among females compared to 0.8% among males. The prevalence of BED also appears to increase with age, with rates reaching as high as 4.2% among adults over the age of 50.
Signs and Symptoms of BED include:
- Eating large amounts of food in a short period of time (bingeing).
- Eating when not hungry or in response to emotions such as stress, anger, sadness, boredom, or loneliness.
- Eating in secret or feeling embarrassed about one’s eating habits.
- Feeling out of control during eating binges.
- Feeling guilty, ashamed, or embarrassed after eating.
- Having a preoccupation with food or body shape.
- Having anxiety or depression.
- Taking risks with one’s health such as using diet pills, laxatives, or diuretics.
- Having difficulty concentrating or focusing on tasks.
- Having feelings of low self-esteem or self-worth.
Physical symptoms of BED can include:
- Weight gain
- Changes in appetite
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Digestive issues
- Muscle aches and pains
- Headaches
- Feeling bloated or uncomfortable after eating
- Low energy levels
- Loss of interest in activities
Emotional symptoms of BED include:
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or embarrassment about eating and body image
- Low self-esteem and difficulty with self-image
- Depression and/or anxiety
- Difficulty controlling emotions
- Irritability and difficulty managing stress
- Feelings of isolation
- Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Do I need therapy?
If you recognise that you have a lot of the signs and symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder, then seeking support from an expert in this area would be helpful. As an experienced Eating Disorder Therapist, I like to integrate traditional psychotherapy (CBT) with more energy based techniques (such as emotional freedom technique) to offer a more holistic approach to recovery. I offer this through my bespoke Food Freedom framework, which is a 3 to 6 month experience to guide you through binge eating recovery and to heal your relationship with food.
The framework has three distinct phases: Rebalance, Reprogram, Renew
What to expect from therapy
Follow a comprehensive assessment our time together will begin with the rebalance phase. During this time we will be focusing on nourishing the body to take it out of restriction and restore nutritional balance. We’ll also be exploring a holistic approach to health to reduce stress on the mind and body
In the reprogram phase we are learning to let go of a dieters mindset and all the self-imposed restrictions and guilt that comes with it. We’ll begin to address your unhelpful thoughts and feelings which maintain your emotional and binge eating. You’ll learn how to begin gaining trust in your body’s own intuitive hunger and fullness signals.
Finally, in the renew phase we are working to uproot and clear your limiting beliefs, as they are what cause us to self-sabotage and rail road recovery. This phase of the program involves more deeper healing work using my skills as an EFT practitioner and Certified Hypnotherapist and will support you to gain the trust and belief in yourself to help you succeed.
We’ll meet together (online or face to face) for one hour each week at a pre agreed day and time. Outside of our appointment time you can access direct support via email or voice notes and I will get back to you as soon as I can (Monday to Friday 10am to 7pm).
Where appropriate throughout our time together I’ll offer EFT/RTT sessions and personalised guided meditation recordings to reprogram your mindset around food.
Whilst there is structure in my Food Freedom Framework, the therapy will be very much tailored to your needs.
How will I know if I have recovered from BED?
Recovery from binge eating looks different for everyone, but some common themes include:
- Developing healthy eating habits: This may include learning how to plan meals, understanding portion sizes, and learning about nutrition.
- Learning to recognise and address triggers: This could include identifying emotions or situations that lead to binge eating, and developing strategies to cope with them in a healthier way.
- Coping with emotional issues: Binge eating is often linked to emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. It is important to learn how to cope with these issues in a healthy way.
- Building a supportive network: Finding support from family, friends, or professionals can be very helpful when trying to recover from binge eating.
- Participating in physical activity: Exercise can help reduce stress and improve mood. It can also help with weight management.
- Practicing mindfulness: Mindfulness is a practice of focusing on the present moment without judgment or criticism. It can help people become more aware of their thoughts and feelings and better manage their behaviours.
How long does recovery take?
The length of time for binge eating recovery can vary from person to person, and is dependent on a variety of factors such as the severity of the disorder, the amount of effort put into treatment, and the individual’s support system. It is important to note that recovery is not a linear process, and there may be setbacks along the way. However, with dedication and support, individuals can make progress toward healing. I work with individuals for a minimum of three months and most clients will spend 6 to 9 months working with me.
If you feel like you would like to work with an experienced Binge Eating Therapist in London, UK, please book a discovery call to find out more about working with me
