Compulsive overeating Treatment
Compulsive overeating can be seen as a food addiction. Generally a person will consume large amounts of food even if they are not hungry, this is usually a way of dealing with stress, daily problems and negative emotions. Following an episode of compulsive eating a person will feel guilt, shame and possibly depression at the thought of being unable to control their compulsions.
Compulsive overeating is different to Bulimia, as the person will not make an attempt to remove their food by purging or use of laxatives. Generally overeaters will be over weight, however, people of a healthy weight may also experience difficulties.
Some people who become overeaters have never learnt to form healthy ways of dealing with emotions and use food as a coping mechanism. People who are overeaters are aware that they have a problem but are unable to control the compulsions. Many eat in secret and family and friends may never know they have an eating disorder.
Fad diets may be used as a self-help technique, however, weight loss will be regained once the diet is stopped. The yo yo effect of weight loss and gain exacerbates negative feelings of self worth, guilt and shame and can lead to further binging.
Being overweight can lead to medical complications. Cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, oesophagus/gastric rupture, breathing difficulties and heart attack are amongst some of the potential health problems that can be experienced as a result of overeating.
Compulsive overeaters will also experience physiological symptoms. Mood swings, sleep disturbance, poor body image, low self-esteem, feeling of guilt and shame and social isolation can all be behavioural signs and symptoms
At Serenity Health we will provide you with a unique recovery programme to suit your individual needs. It is possible to form a healthy relationship with food and recover from compulsive overeating disorder with the right support.