Overcoming Binge Eating provides an account of what is known about binge eating problems and their treatment (Part I) together with a detailed step-by-step self-help program based on the most effective treatment available (Part II).
If you have bought this book because you are concerned that a relative or friend might have a binge eating problem, then the main descriptive chapters (Chapters 1 and 4) should clarify matters. And if you are concerned about the physical effects of binge eating problems, read Chapter 5. Treatment is discussed in Chapter 8.
Perhaps you think your relative or friend has a binge eating problem, but the matter has never been discussed. This is a difficult situation since it is obviously their right to decide whether they want to talk about it or not. Nevertheless, it does seem reasonable to ensure that they are well informed. An appropriate initial step is therefore to encourage the person to read this book. How this can best be achieved will depend on the exact circumstances and may require considerable sensitivity on your part. Keep in mind that binge eating problems are associated with shame and self-recrimination so being “found out” can come as a considerable shock.
If the problem is in the open, the issue may be how you can help. This will depend on whether your relative or friend wants to change. If ambivalence is a problem, you might want to suggest that he or she read the section “Why Change?” at the beginning of Part II. However, if he or she already has a desire to change, you might together review the various treatment options to decide which would be best. If the decision is to seek professional treatment, then you can help by facilitating this goal. And once a competent therapist has been identified (for guidance, see Appendix I), it may well be appropriate to find out what role, if any, you should take. It is important to stress, however, that you should avoid becoming over-involved. Sometimes the most caring thing that you can do is to be there in the background and make yourself available when needed.
If the decision is to use the self-help program in Part II, then a backseat role is certainly best. It is a good idea to read Part I and familiarize yourself with Part II so that you know what the program involves, but it will be up to your relative or friend to decide how you can be of most assistance to him or her. Remember, the program involves the person concerned becoming his or her own therapist. You may have no other role than being available to provide support or advice at difficult times. This can be a difficult part to play. You may feel tempted to step in when you should not, or you could be asked to help at an inconvenient time.
Your relative or friend may feel discouraged or even hopeless at times. They may feel that they will never overcome their binge eating problem. If they share such feelings with you, help them review their progress in a balanced way, and make sure that all their achievements are highlighted as they can get overlooked. Point out all signs of progress and provide as much encouragement as you can.
One other point is worth making. You may feel that the program is too simple to work. This is not the case. It has been extensively tested—possibly better tested than any other self-help program (for any problem)—and it has been shown to be effective (see Chapter 8). Try not to undermine the program. Instead, suspend any misgivings and support your relative or friend as best you can.