Overeating and the reasons behind it: Why can't we stop eating?

11 February 1403
8 minutes

Overeating means consuming too much food in a short time, which can harm physical and mental health. This disorder usually occurs for various reasons including stress, emotional problems or even lack of sleep. Binge eating is often associated with feelings of guilt or inability to control eating behaviors and may lead to problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease over time. However, overeating is not only a physical problem, but psychological factors are also involved in causing this disorder. This issue can be very complicated and difficult due to its emotional and psychological effects.

What is binge eating disorder?

Binge eating disorder refers to a condition in which a person uncontrollably consumes a large amount of food in a short period of time. This disorder is associated with feelings of guilt or the inability to control appetite, and people with this disorder may not feel any pleasure from eating, but rather this behavior is formed as a reaction to stress or other psychological problems. In this disorder, the person continues to eat even when his body does not need food. People with binge eating disorder often experience stress, anxiety or depression in their daily lives.

For this reason, they may tend to eat more foods to forget their problems or reduce their anxiety. Overeating can lead to serious physical complications such as obesity, increased risk of heart disease and diabetes, and also psychological effects such as feelings of guilt and self-dissatisfaction. Finally, binge eating is a complex disorder that requires comprehensive and multifaceted treatment. The treatment of this disorder should include psychological and medical approaches in order to help a person to change his behavioral and thought patterns and reduce his anxiety and stress and achieve a healthier life. For the treatment of binge eating disorder, you can go to Mehrabod psychology and psychiatry department, obsession treatment

Causes of overeating

Binge eating disorder can occur for various reasons, but in most cases, a combination of psychological, social and genetic factors play a role in causing this disorder. One of the most important reasons for overeating is stress and anxiety. Many people who binge eat, especially when they are under stress, may turn to food to relieve their anxiety. In this case, food becomes a way to escape from problems and negative emotions.

Social factors can also be influential in the occurrence of overeating. Some people may eat under social pressure to have a "fit" body or according to social standards. These pressures can cause people to overeat due to negative emotions. Also, in some people, past experiences such as emotional or family abuse can cause emotional problems that eventually lead to binge eating.

Genetic factors may also be involved in causing binge eating disorder. Research has shown that some people may be more prone to overeating due to genetic differences. These people may psychologically and physiologically respond to eating to deal with stress or negative emotions, and for this reason, binge eating disorder appears in them in different ways.

Diagnosis of binge eating

Binge eating is usually diagnosed by a mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. In this process, the doctor asks the patient questions about his eating behaviors, mental and emotional state, and nutritional patterns. Psychological assessment usually includes questionnaires that help identify the degree of control a person has over his eating behavior and emotional problems. These assessments may help to accurately diagnose binge eating disorder. Sometimes, physical exams and medical tests may also be used to assess a person's health and identify problems such as obesity or metabolic disorders.

The doctor may prescribe tests to check for physical effects of overeating, such as high blood pressure or heart problems. Accurate and timely diagnosis of binge eating disorder can help prevent more serious problems. The diagnosis of binge eating disorder should be done by an expert team including a psychologist, psychiatrist and general practitioner so that effective treatments can be provided in the best way. Using clinical interviews and special tests, doctors can determine the severity of the disorder and the individual's treatment needs.

Prevention of overeating

Prevention of binge eating disorder includes several strategies that can help people avoid this disorder. One of the most important ways to prevent it is to teach coping skills for stress and anxiety. Many people turn to overeating due to their inability to cope with stress or emotional problems. Teaching the correct methods of stress management can help reduce the tendency to overeat.

Balanced diets and regular physical activities can also help prevent eating disorders and overeating. Having a healthy and consistent meal plan can prevent a person from overeating due to hunger or anxiety. Exercise and physical activity can also help reduce stress and improve a person's mental state and prevent overeating.

Departmental awareness and psychological counseling can also play an important role in preventing binge eating disorder. People who have emotional or psychological problems should see psychological counselors on a regular basis to learn the necessary skills to deal with their problems. In this regard, Mehrbad psychology and psychiatry group can be effective in helping people to face this disorder.

Types of overeating models

Overeating can appear in different ways, which includes certain types of eating behaviors. One of the most common types of binge eating is bulimia nervosa, in which a person does not feel very hungry, but eats involuntarily. This type of overeating is often caused by anxiety or high stress, and a person may feel guilty or regretful after eating.

Another type of overeating is known as "emotional overeating". This model of overeating occurs mostly when a person turns to food to relieve feelings such as depression, loneliness, or anxiety. In this case, the person may not have any interest in eating, but continues to eat to relieve his negative feelings.

Another model of overeating is known as "false overeating" in which a person eats because of irrational thoughts and behaviors. This type of overeating is usually observed in people with mental disorders such as depression or anxiety and is more caused by negative thoughts than the real feeling of hunger.

Treatment of binge eating

Treatment of binge eating disorder usually requires a multifaceted approach. The first step in treatment is to identify the psychological and emotional causes that cause overeating. Psychological treatments such as individual counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment-based therapies can help a person to identify and resolve their psychological problems. In some cases, antidepressants or anxiety medications may be prescribed to treat people with binge eating.

These drugs can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression and thus lead to a reduction in overeating behaviors. People with binge eating disorder should be under the supervision of a doctor and psychologist so that a comprehensive treatment plan can be designed for them. In this regard, Mehrabad psychology and psychiatry department can be effective in helping to treat this disorder. Using counseling and psychological treatments can help people to gradually change their behavior patterns and prevent overeating.

Conclusion

Binge eating disorder is a complex mental disorder that can have serious consequences due to its physical and psychological effects. Early identification of the symptoms and causes of this disorder and timely treatment can help people avoid serious complications. Treating binge eating requires a multifaceted approach that includes psychological treatments, counseling, and in some cases, the use of specific medications. Finally, people with binge eating disorder should seek professional help. In this regard, counseling from Mehrbad Psychology and Psychiatry Group can provide effective solutions to treat this disorder and help people return to a healthier life.