Recognize the Symptoms of Compulsive Overeating
Compulsive overeating is a disorder in which a patient may experience uncontrollable eating followed by feelings of guilt or shame. It is important to realize that this disorder differs from other eating disorders, such as bulimia, in that the patient does not purge. Follow these steps to recognize the disorder.
Instructions
1. Know that bingeing, or eating uncontrollably even when you are not hungry, is one of the primary symptoms of compulsive overeating.
2. Recognize that a preoccupation with body weight may be a signal that someone is suffering from an eating disorder, such as compulsive overeating. This preoccupation may manifest itself in the form of obsession over food or excessive commentary regarding diet or exercise.
3. Depression and mood swings may be both symptoms and underlying causes of a compulsive overeating disorder. It is essential that a full mental health assessment be made of any patient who exhibits symptoms of depression and an eating disorder, such as compulsive overeating, to determine what underlying causes may be behind both.
4. Notice whether you or your loved one has a history of significant weight fluctuations. A marked fluctuation in weight gain or loss may be indicative of a compulsive overeating disorder.
5. Recognize symptoms that may indicate another eating disorder such as bulimia. Those who are compulsive eaters do not typically purge after eating by vomiting or following an aggressive exercise regimen. They also do not typically engage in other purging habits through medicinal assistance, such diuretics or laxatives.
6. Learn to recognize other symptoms, such as hiding food consumption or missing work or other activities in order to binge or eat compulsively. These symptoms may be difficult to detect in other individuals, so it is important to approach the discussion of them with a non-judgmental attitude.
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