Ahmintahäiriön

Ahmintahäiriö, known in English as binge eating disorder (BED), is a serious eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often very quickly and to the point of discomfort. During these episodes, the individual feels a lack of control over their eating, as if they cannot stop or control what or how much they are eating.

These binge eating episodes are accompanied by a sense of distress and are typically followed by feelings of guilt, shame, and depression. Unlike bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder does not involve regular compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxative abuse to counteract the large food intake.

People with ahmintahäiriö often eat alone due to embarrassment about the amount of food they consume. They may also eat when they are not hungry and continue eating long after they feel full. The frequency of these episodes can vary, but they occur at least once a week for three months or longer to meet diagnostic criteria.

The causes of ahmintahäiriö are complex and can involve a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. It is a recognized mental health condition that can have significant physical and emotional consequences. Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and sometimes medication to address underlying issues like depression or anxiety. Seeking professional help is crucial for recovery.