Yes, the eating disorder you are referring to is called "binge eating disorder" (BED). It is a serious mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food within a short period of time, often to the point of feeling uncomfortably full or sick. People with BED experience a loss of control during these binge episodes and may continue eating even when they are not physically hungry.
Some key features of binge eating disorder include:
Binge eating episodes: Individuals with BED regularly engage in episodes of excessive eating, typically in a discrete period, such as two hours.
Loss of control: During a binge eating episode, individuals feel a sense of lack of control over their eating. They may feel unable to stop or slow down, even if they want to.
Emotional distress: Many people with BED use food as a way to cope with emotional or psychological distress, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or boredom.
Feelings of guilt or shame: After a binge episode, individuals often experience intense feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment.
Absence of compensatory behaviors: Unlike bulimia nervosa, individuals with BED do not regularly engage in inappropriate compensatory behaviors like purging, excessive exercise, or fasting.
It's essential to recognize that BED is a legitimate medical condition and not just a matter of lack of willpower or self-control. Many factors contribute to the development of binge eating disorder, including genetics, environmental influences, psychological factors, and societal pressures.
If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating or any other eating disorder, it's important to seek professional help. Mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, or dietitians experienced in treating eating disorders, can provide guidance and support to address the underlying issues and establish healthier relationships with food and body image.