Does Binging Mask ADHD?

Digging into the question of whether binge eating can hide ADHD symptoms is really important, and it depends on several different things. It's crucial to understand that binge eating probably doesn't directly cover up ADHD; instead, there seems to be a connection between binge-eating behaviors and some ADHD symptoms that might not have been officially identified yet. Regardless if ADHD is playing a role in your binge eating, therapy can help you. Binge eating disorder treatment is all about uncovering different areas in your life that might be related to your binge eating. 

Binge eating, where you eat a lot quickly and feel out of control, is often linked to emotions and stress. Imagine it as more than just satisfying hunger it's about coping with your feelings. Even when you don't realize you are using food to cope with emotions, it might be happening. Those dealing with ADHD might find they struggle with binge eating at a different level. 

Sometimes, people with ADHD might resort to binge eating as a way to cope with emotions connected to their ADHD symptoms such as rejection, stress, or frustration. But it's important to emphasize that binging isn't a disguise for ADHD itself. Instead, it's a behavior connected to how individuals handle their ADHD symptoms and the emotions that come with them.

Coping with ADHD and Binge Eating

Effectively managing ADHD and binge eating is about finding coping skills that genuinely work for you. Learning how to deal with your emotions and changing negative beliefs about yourself is crucial in stopping binge eating. Binge eating often connects with emotional struggles and how you see yourself. To break this cycle, it's important to recognize and handle the emotions that lead to binge eating, like stress or sadness. Also, it involves facing and changing the negative thoughts you have about yourself that might be a big part of why you use binging to cope. 

For those with ADHD who struggle with binge eating, learning to be intuitive eaters can make a big difference. Intuitive eating means paying attention to your body's signals, understanding when you're hungry or full, and having a mindful approach to food. ADHD can add challenges to eating because of impulsivity and emotional struggles. Becoming an intuitive eater involves being more aware of what emotions trigger binge eating and recognizing the body's signals for hunger and satisfaction. Seeking guidance from an eating disorder therapist through binge eating disorder treatment can help you break free of binge eating but it can help you manage your ADHD better. 

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment in Utah for ADHD and binge eating 

Receiving therapy from an eating disorder specialist can be highly beneficial for individuals dealing with ADHD and grappling with binge eating. In therapy, collaborative efforts focus on comprehending and managing emotions, particularly those contributing to binge triggers like stress or sadness. Negative self-perceptions are also addressed. Collaborating with a therapist experienced in eating disorders equips individuals with personalized strategies to navigate these challenges effectively. The emphasis is on acquiring practical tools to liberate oneself from the cycle of binge eating. Therapy offers a secure and supportive environment to delve into root causes, aiding in the development of improved coping mechanisms and fostering positive changes. For those seeking a genuine and effective approach to halt binge eating, therapy serves as a valuable resource tailored to unique needs.

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah 

You don’t have to try and keep it together. You don’t have to try and figure this out all by yourself. You can manage your ADHD and binge eating better with the help of binge eating disorder treatment. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist who specializes in binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

  1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

  2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

  3. Begin feeling better

About the Author 

Meet Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, the founder of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah. With a focus on treating eating disorders, Ashlee has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through their mental health journeys. She holds bachelor's degrees in psychology and family life and human development from Southern Utah University, providing a solid understanding of human behavior and relationships. Furthering her education, Ashlee earned a master's degree in social work from Utah State University, enhancing her skills in the field. Notably, she brings a comprehensive perspective to her practice, having worked at all levels of eating disorder treatment.