What Is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterized by frequent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often accompanied by a sense of loss of control, distress, or shame. Unlike bulimia nervosa, individuals with BED do not regularly engage in purging or compensatory behaviors after a binge.

BED affects people of all genders, sizes, and backgrounds. It is typically a deeply human response to unmet emotional needs, stress, trauma, or chronic deprivation. Without proper treatment, BED can lead to serious physical and psychological challenges, but recovery is possible with the right support. 

While BED is the most common eating disorder in the U.S., it often goes undiagnosed due to stigma or misunderstanding. With the right support, recovery is not only possible—it’s empowering.

Signs and Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder

Recognizing the signs is a courageous first step toward recovery. Common symptoms include:

Frequent episodes of eating large amounts of food quickly

Even when not hungry, often to the point of discomfort

Loss of control during eating

Feeling unable to stop or regulate food intake during a binge

Guilt, shame, or distress after eating

Emotional turmoil that follows binge episodes

Avoiding meals with others or eating alone in secret

Social withdrawal or increased isolation around food due to embarrassment or shame

Weight changes and related health concerns

Unexplained weight gain over time, along with fatigue, joint discomfort, or other physical symptoms linked to eating patterns and overall health.

Negative body image and low self-esteem

Persistent dissatisfaction with appearance or feelings of worthlessness

Using food as emotional coping

Turning to food to soothe stress, sadness, or boredom

Take Back Control—Your Healing Starts Here

You deserve more than just control—you deserve connection, healing, and a life rooted in balance. At NewCircle, we meet you where you are and support you as you move from shame and secrecy to strength, self-compassion, and true healing.

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment Options

At NewCircle, we provide a full continuum of eating disorder care tailored to each person’s journey:

  • Residential Treatment: Around-the-clock support in a welcoming environment designed for safety and healing, with access to urban parks and therapeutic outings.
  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Daytime treatment sessions with structured therapy and support, allowing for evenings at home.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): A flexible care option meeting three to six times per week, ideal for those transitioning or balancing daily responsibilities.
  • Therapeutic Counseling (Individual & Group): Includes evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed therapy to support emotional regulation and behavioral change.
  • Nutrition and Eating Recovery Support: Personalized guidance, therapeutic meal planning, and exposure-based work in our education kitchen to rebuild a healthy relationship with eating.
  • Family & Community Involvement: Support through family therapy, education, and inclusion in care planning—because connection is part of healing.
  • Integrated Mental Health Care: Comprehensive support for co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma.
  • Creative and Movement-Based Therapies: Express yourself through art, movement, and recreational activities that promote a mind-body connection.
  • Affirming, Inclusive Environment: We specialize in serving LGBTQ+ individuals in a safe, understanding space—our team is trained in culturally competent care.
  • Therapy Dog Companions: Service dogs are on-site to provide comfort and support throughout your treatment experience.

What Happens After Treatment?

Recovery doesn’t stop at discharge—it’s a continuous journey. After completing treatment, many clients step down to lower levels of care, such as IOP or outpatient therapy. At NewCircle, we help you create a personalized aftercare plan that may include relapse prevention tools, ongoing therapy, nutrition support, and peer groups.

We stay connected through regular check-ins and ensure you have the resources to maintain your progress. With the right support, recovery becomes a long-term foundation, not just a phase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. While both involve episodes of overeating, binge eating disorder does not include purging behaviors such as vomiting or overexercising.

Not necessarily. While some individuals experience weight changes, binge eating disorder is a mental health condition that affects people of all sizes.

If your eating patterns cause distress, interfere with your daily life, or make you feel out of control, seeking support can be a powerful first step.

Treatment varies by individual. Many begin with residential or PHP, then transition to outpatient care. Our team works with you to create a personalized path.

Absolutely. With compassionate care, evidence-based treatment, and long-term support, full recovery is possible.