Binge eating disorder is characterised by periods of binge eating without compensatory behaviour such as vomiting or excessive exercise. Binging behaviour can continue for many years.
The prevalence of binge eating disorder in the general Australian population is estimated to be 4%. The incidence of binge eating disorder in males and females is almost equal.
Symptoms and characteristics
Some of the symptoms and characteristics of binge eating include:
- anxiety and/or depression related symptoms
- avoidance of social situations involving food
- fast eating
- feelings of being out of control with food
- hoarding food
- increased mood changes, irritability
- preoccupation with body appearance or weight
- social withdrawal/isolation
- weight change
Workplace solutions and adjustments
It is best simply to encourage medical intervention or psychological counselling if an employee exhibits severe binging behaviours. However, it is important to remember that for most suffers one of the hardest things to do is to admit to the problem. The next hardest thing for them is to accept professional help. Those with an eating disorder are often competent, independent employees who may not be comfortable sharing their feelings/concerns with others. They may also feel too ashamed or embarrassed to reveal to someone what they are doing. Try to be patient and understanding.
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
- Dealing with stress and psychological demands
- Focusing attention
- Handling stress
- Managing depression
Other information that may be useful when dealing with a person who has a binge eating disorder can be found at the following link:
- Generalised anxiety disorder
References
The Butterfly Foundation 2007, What is Binge Eating Disorder?, The Butterfly Foundation, Melbourne, viewed 6 June 2011, http://thebutterflyfoundation.org.au/Uploaded_Files/CMS_Image/file/Binge%20Eating%20Disorder%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf.
Eating Disorders Foundation of Victoria 2009, What is Binge Eating Disorder?, Eating Disorders Foundation of Victoria, Melbourne, viewed 6 June 2011, http://eatingdisorders.org.au/eating-disorders/types-of-eating-disorders/binge-eating-disorder-2/what-is-binge-eating-disorder.html.