Personally--I think its a *real* disorder, because for me a disorder is a coping mechanism that doesn't solve the problem...does that make sense? I've always liked the phrase, "if hunger isn't the problem, food isn't the answer". Of course BED takes this to a very unhealthy extreme. But to answer your question, yes, I think it's a real disorder. And I also think there are lots of ways to treat it. I think seeing a therapist who maybe specializes in eating disorders would be a good place to start. Or, if possible, seeing a clinician who does cognitive and behavioral treatment. I think both of those things, would be a giant step in the right direction.
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