How to treat psychological disorders of overeating and binge eating

The psychological disorder of overeating usually refers to eating disorders such as bulimia nervosa, and its treatment requires comprehensive psychological intervention, medication therapy, and nutritional support. The main methods include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal relationship psychotherapy, antidepressant medication therapy, nutritional counseling and supervision, and supportive group therapy.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a first-line psychological therapy for treating bulimia nervosa. This method aims to help patients identify and correct distorted cognition and unhealthy behavior patterns related to eating, body shape, and weight. Therapists will guide patients to keep a diet diary, challenge the extreme food concept of "black or white", learn to cope with emotional triggers that trigger overeating and clearance behavior, and gradually establish a regular eating pattern. By breaking the vicious cycle of overeating and clearing, help patients rebuild healthy eating behaviors and self-image.

II. Interpersonal Relationship Psychotherapy

Interpersonal relationship psychotherapy focuses on improving patients' interpersonal relationship function, as interpersonal stress is often an important factor in the occurrence and maintenance of eating disorders. The treatment will focus on the patient's current interpersonal relationship issues, such as role conflicts, role transitions, interpersonal alienation, or grief. By addressing these core interpersonal difficulties, patients' emotional distress can be alleviated, indirectly reducing behaviors that rely on overeating as a coping strategy, and improving social support and quality of life.

III. Antidepressant Drug Treatment

The use of antidepressants under the guidance of a doctor is an important adjunctive treatment method. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as fluoxetine hydrochloride capsules, sertraline hydrochloride tablets, paroxetine hydrochloride tablets, etc. have been proven to effectively reduce the frequency of binge eating and clearance behaviors, and improve accompanying depression and anxiety. Drug therapy should be carried out after evaluation by a psychiatrist and should be accompanied by regular monitoring of efficacy and safety. It is not allowed to purchase or use drugs on one's own.

Fourth, Nutritional Counseling and Supervision

Nutritional counseling and supervision provided by registered nutritionists are crucial. Nutritionists will evaluate the nutritional status of patients, develop personalized and balanced meal plans, help patients bid farewell to extreme patterns of dieting and overeating, and achieve regular three meals and moderate meals. At the same time, nutrition education can correct misconceptions about food, guide patients to learn to listen to hunger and satiety signals in the body, gradually restore normal eating rhythms, and provide a foundation for physical recovery.

V. Supportive Group Therapy

Participating in professionally led supportive group therapy can provide valuable peer support for patients. In a secure and confidential environment, patients can share their experiences, feelings, and coping strategies, reducing feelings of shame and isolation. Witnessing the rehabilitation process of others can bring hope and motivation, and mutual encouragement and accountability among group members can also help maintain treatment motivation and consolidate the skills learned in individual treatment. The treatment of psychological disorders related to overeating is a process that requires patience and persistence, and the understanding and support of family members are indispensable. In addition to actively cooperating with the above-mentioned professional treatments, efforts should be made to create a relaxed and pleasant dining environment in daily life, avoiding harsh comments on food and body shape. Encourage patients to develop stress relieving methods beyond eating, such as walking, meditation, artistic creation, etc. Regularly follow up with doctors and nutritionists to prevent recurrence even if symptoms improve. Remember, seeking help is the first step towards recovery, and it is entirely possible to regain physical and mental health through systemic therapy.