Compulsive Overeating

Compulsive overeaters feel incapable of controlling how much or how often they eat. They may feel unable to stop eating, eat very quickly, eat when they're not hungry, eat when they're only alone, or eat almost non-stop all day.

People with compulsive eating disorder can benefit significantly from therapy. While compulsive overeating can be a challenging pattern to overcome, it is possible to learn new and healthier eating habits. If left untreated, the consequences of compulsive overeating can be severe and may lead to even more dangerous eating disorders such as binge-eating disorder or bulimia nervosa.

Symptoms of Compulsive Overeating

As stated above, compulsive overeaters feel as if they cannot control their food intake. Compulsive eaters often over-indulge in sugary foods and use them in an attempt to elevate their mood. When they don't eat the foods they crave, they often experience severe withdrawal symptoms.

Causes of Compulsive Overeating

There are many factors that can influence the onset of compulsive eating disorder, including family history, metabolism, developmental factors, and personality factors. Some people seem to develop compulsive eating patterns as a way to cope with such feelings as stress, helplessness, or anxiety.

Treatment for Compulsive Overeating

There are therapists who are especially experienced at helping people who suffer from eating disorders. Therapy provides a safe, comforting, and confidential setting in which to receive the kind of help that can best determine and treat any underlying emotional or psychological causes of compulsive eating disorder and encourage new, healthier eating habits while also addressing the effects compulsive eating has had on other areas of the person's life, including family, friends, and work.