13/02/2026
When a client shares with me they’ve binged, I don’t jump straight to behaviour.
I start with function.
Because when you understand what the binge is doing for the body or nervous system, the whole conversation shifts from “why did I do that” to “oh… that makes sense.”
Sometimes the function is straightforward:
➡️ restriction (physical or mental)
➡️ a survival response to scarcity
And for many clients, this explanation alone brings relief, clarity, and a softening of shame.
But it’s not the only function.
Binges can also show up in the context of overwhelm, dissociation, sensory seeking, emotional regulation, trauma responses, or unmet needs — and I’ll unpack those in another post.
If you’re a dietitian who is newer to working with (or wanting to work with) people experiencing eating disorders, having a few grounded, shame‑free scripts in your back pocket can make sessions feel steadier for both you and your clients.
If you want support building your clinical confidence, supervision is open — link in my bio.
