bingeing

Bingeing refers to engaging in a binge, typically involving the rapid consumption of a large amount of something in a short period, often accompanied by a sense of loss of control. While the term can apply to various behaviors, it is most commonly discussed in relation to food, alcohol, or media.

Common forms of bingeing include binge eating, binge drinking, and binge-watching. Binge eating involves consuming an unusually large amount of food in a discrete period, accompanied by feelings of distress or loss of control; it is a core feature of binge eating disorder and can occur in other eating disorders. Binge drinking refers to consuming an excessive amount of alcohol in a short timeframe, which raises risks of acute harm and long‑term health problems. Binge-watching involves watching multiple episodes of a television or streaming series in one sitting, a behavior more related to media use and sleep disruption than to a clinical disorder, though it can affect well-being if it becomes habitual.

Causes and risk factors for bingeing are multifactorial and may include biological, psychological, social, and environmental influences. Warning signs vary by type but commonly include a pattern of repeated episodes, distress or impairment, and secrecy or avoidance of social activities. Health consequences range from physical issues such as weight fluctuations, digestive problems, and intoxication-related risks to mental health concerns like guilt, anxiety, and mood disturbances.

Diagnosis and treatment depend on the specific form and extent of bingeing. Approaches may include medical evaluation, psychotherapy (for example, cognitive-behavioral or dialectical behavior therapy), behavioral strategies, and, for alcohol-related cases, brief interventions or medications. Prevention focuses on awareness, coping skills, healthy routines, and addressing underlying factors such as stress or trauma.