Overcoming Binge Eating | Chris Fairburn

Overcoming Binge Eating

The Book and its Use

I had two goals in mind when writing Overcoming Binge Eating. The first was to provide a readable and authoritative account of binge eating problems and how they can be overcome (Part I). My second goal was to present a self-help program directly based on the most effective treatment available (Part II). My intention was that the program could be used by more-or-less anyone with a binge eating problem so long as they were not substantially underweight.

The First Edition

The first edition was published in 1995. Since then Part I has become established as a leading source of information on binge eating problems. Meanwhile the treatment program in Part II has been investigated in numerous clinical trials. Time after time it has been found to be a potent source of help, either when used on its own or when used with external support (guided self-help). As a result the program is regarded as a leading treatment for binge eating problems. In recognition of this, Overcoming Binge Eating was awarded the Seal of Merit from the US Association for the Advancement of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy while in the UK National Health Service doctors can prescribe the book as if it were a form of medication.

Overcoming Binge Eating (Second Edition)

Time moves on, new knowledge is acquired, and with the new knowledge comes advances in treatment. As a result the second edition was essentially a new book. It continued to provide a comprehensive and up to date account of what was known about binge eating problems while also covering in detail dieting, body weight and body image.

Part II was also extensively modified, mainly in light of the development of CBT-E, a new more effective treatment for most forms of eating disorder (see the Story page for more information on CBT-E). The revised program included an enhanced way of regaining control over eating, a more sophisticated approach to the addressing of concerns about shape and weight, and a greater emphasis on relapse prevention. Indeed, the self-help program in the second edition was, in essence, a self-help form of CBT-E.

Translations of Overcoming Binge Eating

Overcoming Binge Eating has been extensively translated. It is available in Italian, German, Spanish, Swedish, Norwegian, Polish and Greek, and probably other languages too. On the right are copies of the covers of some of the translations. They are remarkably varied. Regrettably, some are entirely inappropriate!

Reviews of Overcoming Binge Eating (Second Edition)
“By any standard, Christopher Fairburn is the leading authority in our field, so who better to write the definitive book? This program is based on vast clinical experience, numerous clinical trials, and a breadth of perspective that few possess. You can trust this book. It is a landmark.”

Kelly Brownell PhD, Director, Rudd Center for Obesity, Yale University

“It is difficult to improve on a classic, but that is exactly what Dr. Fairburn has done. Overcoming Binge Eating, Second Edition, expands on the highly effective cognitive behavioral treatment for eating disorders that Dr. Fairburn has developed. If you or a loved one suffer from binge eating, bulimia or other eating disorders, this is the book to read--and re-read.”

Robert Leahy PhD, Director, American Institute for Cognitive Therapy

“In this gem of a book, Dr Fairburn draws upon decades of clinical experience and research findings on binge eating and related problems. This new (and thoroughly reworked) edition is a “must read” if you want to understand binge eating problems and begin (or guide and support others on) the journey toward full recovery.”

Ruth H. Striegel PhD, Editor-in-chief, International Journal of Eating Disorders

Contents of Overcoming Binge Eating (Second Edition)
PART I - Binge Eating Problems - The Facts
Chapter 1. Binge Eating
Chapter 2. Eating Problems and Eating Disorders
Chapter 3. Who Binges?
Chapter 4. Psychological and Social Aspects
Chapter 5. Physical Aspects
Chapter 6. What Causes Binge Eating Problems?
Chapter 7. Binge Eating and Addiction
Chapter 8. The Treatment of Binge Eating Problems

PART II - An Enhanced Self-Help Program for Those who Binge

1. Getting Ready

2. Starting Well

3. Regular Eating

4. Alternatives to Binge Eating

5. Problem Solving

6. Taking Stock

7. Dieting

8. Body Image

9. Ending Well

APPENDICES

I Obtaining Professional Help for an Eating Problem
II Calculating Your Body Mass Index