What is the Most Common Eating Disorder?

most common eating disorder BED table with serving plates

BED is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), BED is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting an estimated 2.8 million people. It is more prevalent in women than men, with 1 in 5 women experiencing BED at some point in their lives. Those with eating disorders are at a higher risk for mental health complications and suicide.

 

The Most Common Eating Disorder

BED is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time, even when not hungry.  Almost everyone “overeats” occasionally, like having a second piece of pie at Thanksgiving. However, if you feel like eating is out of control, or that you are eating inordinately large amounts of food, you might be exhibiting signs of a binge eating disorder.

 

Because it is not possible to “just stop,” Individuals with BED frequently experience negative emotions like guilt, shame, and disgust after a binge episode. The consequences of BED can be severe and long-lasting. It can lead to significant physical health problems like heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Individuals with BED are at a higher risk of developing other mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse disorders. It is important to recognize the symptoms of BED and seek help from a healthcare professional if you or someone you know is struggling with this condition.

 

At Sanford Behavioral Health, we understand the challenges of eating disorders and offer comprehensive treatment for individuals struggling with these conditions.

 

Common symptoms of BED, include:

  • Eating large amounts of food rapidly, even when not hungry
  • Eating until feeling uncomfortably full
  • Frequent dieting without long-term weight loss
  • Changes in body weight
  • Periods of evere deprivation of food followed by increased urges to binge
  • Isolating due to embarrassment or shame
  • Feeling guilty, ashamed, or disgusted after a binge episode
  • Eating when stressed, upset, or bored
  • Hiding or hoarding food
  • Avoiding holiday festivities or events where food is present
  • Coexisting conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction to alcohol and other drugs

 

Sanford Comprehensive Treatment for Eating Disorders

At Sanford Behavioral Health, we understand the challenges of eating disorders and offer comprehensive treatment for individuals struggling with these conditions. Our eating disorder treatment in Marne, Michigan, 12 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, is dedicated to helping individuals heal and recover from binge eating disorder and other disordered eating. Our experienced professionals utilize evidence-based techniques and a personalized approach to address each patient’s unique needs.

 

In-Person Services Include:

  • The first standalone residential eating disorder treatment center in Michigan (since 2021)
  • Individual therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Medical evaluation and monitoring
  • Psychiatric support
  • Nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietician
  • Resource referral
  • Case management
  • Crisis prevention and intervention are available 24/7
  • Structured daily check-in with staff
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) services, as needed
  • Support groups for individuals and families
  • Aftercare planning and referrals
  • Meal planning and support
  • Therapeutic outings in the community

 

Virtual Services Include:

  • Comprehensive Assessments
  • 3 hrs/3 days-per-week
  • Flexible Schedules for your Real-Life
  • Psychiatrist-Led Medical Team
  • Medical Interventions including SPRAVATO
  • Clinical Therapists, Registered Dietitians
  • Individual & Group Therapy
  • Alumni & Family Support
  • Ease of Use & At-Home Care
  • In-Network with Most Insurance Companies

 

We offer a range of treatment modalities, including individual therapy, group therapy, nutrition counseling, and family therapy. Our new virtual programs are only 3 hours per day/three days a week. If you or someone close to you is dealing with an eating disorder, please don’t hesitate to contact us for help today. We’ll work together towards a brighter future. 

 

Sanford Behavioral Health is licensed and accredited as an addiction, eating disorder, and co-occurring mental health treatment facility, serving all of Michigan and beyond. Each of Sanford’s facilities in Greater Grand Rapids is carefully and diligently crafted to create a welcoming and comforting environment. Sanford is led by a psychiatrist-led team of medical, clinical, and support personnel providing medication-assisted, evidenced-based treatment to residential, outpatient, and telehealth patients. For more information, visit www.sanfordbehavioralhealth.com.