Research on Binge Eating Disorders is limited compared to studies on other eating disorders, including Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa. Given that Binge Eating Disorder recently became an independent diagnosis in the DSM-5, has significant medical implications, and commonly involves psychiatric comorbidity, it is worthwhile to explore contributing factors and evidence-based treatment for the disorder.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an evidence-based treatment for Binge Eating Disorder, and most experts agree that while it yields positive treatment results, there is room for improvement in treatment. Shame is an essential contributing factor in developing and maintaining Binge Eating Disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on the premise that an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are intertwined and can ultimately be restructured to support more effective actions. Historically routed in treating depression and anxiety, CBT is becoming more prevalent in eating disorder treatment settings, particularly more recently, with Binge Eating Disorder.
CBT focuses on three phases of treatment: the behavioral phase, the cognitive phase, and the maintenance and relapse phase.