There is no single cause for binge eating. However, like most eating disorders, it is seen as a way of coping with feelings of unhappiness and depression.
Depression
It is estimated that about 50% of people who binge eat have been depressed at some point in their life. However, it is not clear whether depression causes binge eating or whether binge eating causes depression.
See the Health A-Z topic about Depression for more information about the condition.
Stress and anxiety
Stress is another common trigger of eating disorders. Stressful events, such as moving house, job or school, or the death of a friend or relative, can sometimes cause someone to binge eat.
People with eating disorders usually experience difficulties in their personal life. Those who binge eat are often ashamed at the amount of food that they consume and they may also feel that their lack of control around food mirrors the lack of control that they have over their personal lives.
Research has suggested that there are other factors or emotions that may bring on an episode of binge eating, including:
- anger
- boredom
- worry or anxiety
- sadness
- low self-esteem
There are also specific behaviours that are more common in people with a binge eating disorder. These include:
- impulsive behaviour – acting quickly without thinking about the consequences
- alcohol misuse – regularly drinking more than the recommended daily amount of alcohol
- avoiding discussing feelings and emotions openly
- not feeling responsible for yourself or your actions
Trying to lose weight
The social pressure of trying to achieve a slim body shape can sometimes cause a person to binge eat.
People who binge eat may be unable to achieve their desired body shape. This can result in a sense of inadequacy, causing them to overeat and to feel guilty afterwards.
It is not known whether dieting and binge eating are related. However, some people binge eat after:
- skipping meals
- not consuming enough food each day
- avoiding certain foods
These are unhealthy methods of trying to lose weight and alter body shape and they increase a person's risk of binge eating.
