This past November, the GBWC hosted our first event with the amazing support of both The Renfrew Center and Walden Behavioral Care. Our panelists were Anna Peabody Sweeney MS, RDN, LDN, CEDRD-S, Jyoti Daniere, LMHC, and Dr. Kate Craigen, who shared varying perspectives and treatment options for Binge Eating Disorder (BED). The definition of Binge Eating Disorder (BED) can be found here from the National Eating Disorders Association. Binge Eating Disorder as defined by NEDA is (abridged version):
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a severe, life-threatening, and treatable eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food (often very quickly and to the point of discomfort); a feeling of a loss of control during the binge; experiencing shame, distress or guilt afterwards; and not regularly using unhealthy compensatory measures (e.g., purging) to counter the binge eating. It is the most common eating disorder in the United States. (For more see the NEDA definition link above.)
Anna’s talk was incredibly passionate and focused on both her experience in her body as well as stigma that often follows individuals struggling with BED. Jyoti’s piece encompassed much of her history within the field and included a discussion on feminism and eating disorders. She spoke with incredible energy. Dr. Craigen described an exposure method for patients experiencing BED and took us through these steps thoughtfully and in great detail. If you are interested in learning more about BED, our team suggests the book The Journey to Recovery and Beyond by Amy Pershing and Chevese Turner. Another book we love to recommend to those struggling with BED is Eating By the Light of the Moon by Dr. Anita Johnston.
Upcoming Event!
The GBWC will be organizing approximately two events per year. We are currently in the planning stages for our May event on the topic of Clients With Chronic Eating Disorders: Instilling and Maintaining Hope. We’ll be sending out a save-the-date for this event very soon. Please respond to our invite as we’d love to see you there! If you have a suggestion for an event or a referral for our group we look forward to hearing from you. Our contact information is here or by phone 617 651 8300.
Here’s to an incredible year!