AbstractsPsychology

This project develops an introductory workshop on binge eating disorder (BED). The workshop aims to educate mental health professionals on the diagnosis criterion as well as important correlations, risk factors and treatment options. While a majority of BED clients that seek help are obese, not all are overweight. Individuals with BED are often overlooked. Working professionals tend to dismiss the disorder as a symptom of obesity or blame it on emotional eating. However, BED consists of a multitude of impaired behaviors that impact social functioning. Individuals with BED eat a large amount of food rapidly, until uncomfortably full, and experience feelings of disgust, depression, or guiltiness. BED clients are significantly impacted by feelings of loss of control (LOC) over eating. LOC is accompanied by severe self-blame and shaming that negatively impacts their mental health. Individuals with BED are often either victims of childhood maltreatment or have a comorbid disorder of post-traumatic stress, depression, or anxiety. This workshop stresses the importance of accessing for BED in order