(with Dr Sam Russell – By Positive Mind Works)
Binge eating disorder (BED) is one of the most common eating disorders in Australia and New Zealand, affecting the well-being, quality of life, and physical health of over a million people.
Yet despite its prevalence, BED often remains misunderstood — and difficult to overcome alone. In this updated guide, we’ll define binge eating, highlight warning signs, summarise cutting-edge research, and show you how Counselling Psychologist Dr Sam Russell and our team can help you on the path to recovery.
What Is Binge Eating Disorder (BED)?
BED is a recognised pattern of disordered eating and psychological distress characterised by recurrent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food in a discrete time period—often rapidly or in secret—accompanied by feelings of loss of control and emotional overwhelm (more DSM criteria here. Unlike occasional overeating, BED episodes:
- Leave you uncomfortably full even when you’re not physically hungry
- Occur at least once a week, for three months or more
- Trigger intense shame, guilt, or disgust afterwards
Dr Sam Russell, Counselling Psychologist:
“One of the biggest barriers people face when they need help with binge eating is the idea that what they are going through is not ‘bad enough’ or doesn’t count because they don’t fit a specific diagnosis. If your eating feels out of control, causes you distress, or leaves you feeling ashamed, you deserve support, no label required.”
What Causes Binge Eating Disorder?
Research into the causes of binge eating disorder are ongoing. The results are often mixed and inconclusive, but current research suggests that a mix of genetic, psychological, environmental, and sociocultural factors all contribute to its development and maintenance. Some of these include:
- Neurobiological factors: Recent studies suggest dysregulation in brain reward pathways (dopamine, opioids) that heighten food-cue responsiveness and impulsivity.
- Emotional triggers: Anxiety, depression, and stress often precede binge episodes. Up to 65% of individuals with BED report co-existing mood disorders.
- Genetic vulnerability: Family history of eating disorders or addictive behaviours increases risk.
Trauma and adversity: Childhood abuse, neglect, or chronic stress can predispose to maladaptive coping through food. - Unmet needs: For some, binge eating may be an attempt to soothe emotional pain, fill relational voids, or cope with unmet psychological needs such as comfort, safety, or control. When core needs go unaddressed, food can become a temporary substitute for connection, regulation, or relief.
Recent Insight:
A 2024 longitudinal study found that individuals who experienced early life stress had a 3-fold increased likelihood of developing BED by early adulthood .
Warning Signs of Binge Eating Disorder
Be alert to these signs of distress in yourself or loved ones:
- Eating large amounts in a single sitting
- Feeling unable to stop eating, despite discomfort
- Frequent dieting or food restriction between binges
- Guilt, shame, or self-loathing after overeating
- Hiding food or eating in secret
- Preoccupation with food, weight, and body image
Co-occurring anxiety or depressive symptoms
Evidence-Based Treatments & Dr Sam Russell’s Approach
The good news is that recovery from BED is possible. Effective treatment typically combines:
Psychotherapy
- Therapy can help you identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts around food and self-worth, learn emotion-regulation and distress-tolerance skills to manage urges, and help you identify and fill unmet needs instead of eating.
- Approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) can all be suitable for BED.
Medication
- The SSRI lisdexamfetamine is approved for BED and can reduce binge frequency.
- Antidepressants or mood stabilisers may be prescribed for co-occurring conditions.
Nutritional Counselling
- Establishing balanced meal patterns and reconnecting with hunger/fullness cues to break the binge-restrict cycle.
Mind-Body Practices
- Mindfulness-based eating awareness training (MB-EAT) and stress-reduction techniques can lower impulsivity and emotional reactivity.
See research
Practical Tips to Reduce Binge Episodes
- Keep a food and emotion diary to spot patterns (times, triggers, thoughts).
- Eat regular, balanced meals to stabilise blood sugar and prevent extreme hunger.
- Portion control: Pre-plate snacks instead of eating from the packet.
- Develop alternative coping strategies: Deep breathing, journaling, or a short walk when urges strike.
- Seek social support: Share your struggles with a trusted friend, support group, or counsellor.
How to Get Help at Positive Mind Works
If you suspect you or someone you love is struggling with BED, early intervention is key. At Positive Mind Works, you can:
- Book an online or in-person consultation with Dr Sam Russell or one of our experienced psychologists.
- Start with a 20-minute initial assessment ($19) to explore your needs and treatment options.
Access evidence-based care from the comfort of your home or our Paihia clinic. - 👉 Contact us today to take the first step toward reclaiming control, reducing shame, and building a healthier relationship with food.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is binge eating disorder (BED)?
BED is a mental health condition characterised by recurring episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short time, feeling out of control, and experiencing shame or guilt afterwards. It differs from occasional overeating by its frequency (at least once per week for three months) and psychological distress.
How can I tell if I have BED or just overeat sometimes?
Key signs of BED include secret eating, lack of physical hunger during binges, rapid consumption, and intense remorse. Occasional overeating (e.g., during celebrations) without these emotional features is not typically BED.
When should I consider seeing a therapist for my eating habits?
If you notice recurring patterns such as secretive eating, loss of control during meals, persistent guilt or shame afterward, drastic changes in weight, or if your eating habits interfere with daily life (work, school, relationships), consider seeking professional help.
Essentially, if something about your eating is making you feel bad and you’re not able to make changes on your own, you could consider seeing a therapis
Can therapy alone help with binge eating disorder?
In many cases, yes, therapy alone can be very effective, especially when binge eating is rooted in emotional, relational, or psychological factors. If bingeing is linked to things like low self-worth, trauma, stress, or difficulty regulating emotions, therapy can provide the insight, support, and tools needed for meaningful change.
However, for more severe or long-standing cases, or when binge eating occurs alongside medical concerns like metabolic issues, hormonal imbalances, or other mental health conditions, a multidisciplinary approach can be especially helpful. This might include working with a dietitian for gentle nutrition support, a GP or psychiatrist to address co-occurring health conditions or medication needs, and a therapist to explore the emotional and behavioral aspects.
The most important thing is that help is available, and support can be tailored to your unique needs.
How does Dr Sam Russell approach BED treatment?
Dr. Russell’s approach is relational and trauma-informed, focused on working together to understand the deeper patterns that may be keeping you stuck. She sees therapy as a collaborative process, one that explores your experiences, emotions, and personal story, and from there, helps you find meaningful and lasting ways forward.
