Bed is short for binge eating disorder, a mental-health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food with a sense of loss of control, followed by distress such as shame or guilt. It’s often associated with preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape, and it can occur alongside overweight or obesity. Key points
- What it is: Recurrent, uncontrolled binge eating episodes at least once a week for a minimum of three months, without regular compensatory behaviors (unlike bulimia).
- How it feels: Loss of control during episodes, followed by negative emotions (shame, guilt, disgust) after eating.
- Who it affects: People of various weights; BED is a recognized eating disorder in diagnostic manuals.
- How it’s treated: Evidence-based approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), guided self-help with structured programs, and, when appropriate, medical or psychiatric support. Some individuals benefit from medications as part of a broader treatment plan.
- Where to seek help: Primary care providers, mental health professionals, or specialized eating-disorder services. Support groups and online resources can also be helpful.
If you’d like, I can tailor this explanation to a specific audience (e.g., students, patients, or caregivers) or provide a brief glossary of common terms related to BED.
