Mental health and psychiatric disorders

Binge-eating disorder

Regularly eating large amounts of food with a feeling of lost control, often with distress.
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About

Binge-eating disorder is a serious mental health condition where individuals regularly eat large amounts of food in a short period, often feeling a loss of control. Unlike bulimia, binge episodes are not followed by purging. People may feel shame, distress, or guilt after eating and may hide their behaviour.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Low energy or fatigue due to irregular eating patterns
  • Difficulty concentrating or staying focused
  • Emotional distress or shame that affects confidence
  • Anxiety in social settings like staff meals or food-related events
  • Fluctuating moods impacting workplace interactions
  • Avoidance of breaks or lunchrooms due to fear of judgment
  • Health complications linked to weight or disordered eating

Practitioner Help

  • Support the participant to access eating disorder treatment and counselling
  • Help build confidence and address self-esteem challenges
  • Assist with job matching to reduce stress triggers
  • Encourage healthy routines and manageable schedules
  • Promote workplace settings with psychological safety
  • Advocate for mental health support or EAP access

Common Accommodations

  • Supportive supervision and non-judgmental communication
  • Opportunities to work in low-stress, structured roles
  • Education for managers on mental health awareness
  • Access to physiotherapy during work hours
  • Creating quiet spaces for breaks
  • Allowing breaks to rest or recalibrate balance
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Notes

Binge-eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in Australia and can affect people of all body sizes. With the right support, individuals can recover and maintain meaningful employment.

World Eating Disorders Action Day is June 2nd

The Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week (BIEDAW) 5 – 11 September

Resources

  • Binge-eating disorder (BED) | healthdirect
  • Eating disorders explained - Butterfly Foundation
  • What Is Binge Eating Disorder? | Eating Disorders Victoria
Mental health and psychiatric disorders

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