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5 of the best sun lamps: For vitamin D, SAD, and more People most commonly use sun lamps to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or to help their bodies make vitamin D. Learn more here.

What are some of the best books about anxiety? Anxiety is a common mental health condition. The best books about anxiety offer tips and techniques to manage symptoms. Learn about 11 of the best books about anxiety here.

11 of the best books about depression in 2023

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Depression is a mental health condition that can disrupt people’s lives. It can cause various negative feelings, such as anger and sadness. Doctors may prescribe medications to treat the symptoms, but people can also read books to learn more about the condition and find coping strategies for themselves or loved ones.

A quick look at the best books about depression:
Best for stabilizing emotions: Depression-Free, Naturally
Best for managing mood: Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy
Best for understanding depression: This Is Depression
Best for positivity: Learned Hopefulness: The Power of Positivity to Overcome
Best for understanding CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Made Simple
Best for shared experience: Maybe You Should Talk to Someone
Best for stress management: 101 Ways to Be Less Stressed
Best for overcoming negative thoughts: Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts
Best for parental understanding: Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety
Best for self-doubt: The Happiness Trap
Best for self-kindness: Self Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself
This article explores depression in more detail and looks at some of the books available for purchase. It also discusses the benefits and downsides of books about depression.

What is depression?
Depression is a condition that can affect individuals of any age, including children.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that 1.9 millionTrusted Source children aged 13–17 years in the United States have received a diagnosis of depression.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that the symptoms can include:

lack of interest in engaging in everyday activities
difficulty concentrating
suicidal thoughts
agitation
less energy than usual
changes in appetite
The National Institute of Mental HealthTrusted Source explains that certain risk factors can increase a person’s chance of developing depressive episodes. These include:

a personal or family history of depression
trauma
stress
physical illness
medications
Learn more about depression here.

How we chose which books to include
We chose which books to include in this article based on the following criteria:

Reviews: The books we chose have a high rating based on readers’ reviews.
Format: The books are available in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover versions.
Author background: The author or authors have a doctorate or master’s degree. Some also host podcasts or offer online training.
Top books about depression
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

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Best for stabilizing emotions: Depression-Free, Naturally
The full title of this book is Depression-Free, Naturally: 7 Weeks to Eliminating Anxiety, Despair, Fatigue, and Anger from Your Life. It provides advice on how to identify emotional and behavioral symptoms and stabilize mood shifts. It can also help individuals choose vitamins and minerals that may reduce depression and anxiety.

The author, Dr. Joan Mathews Larson, holds a doctorate in nutrition and is the founder and executive director of the Health Recovery Center in Minneapolis.

This book has an average review rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon and is available to purchase on Kindle for about $14, as a hardcover for about $25, and in paperback for close to $16.

Best for managing mood: Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy is a book that is suitable for people who want to treat their depression without using medications.

The author, Dr. David D. Burns, is a psychiatrist and researcher who hosts training programs for mental health professionals.

The book aims to help people reduce depression by building various skills, including:

recognizing the causes of their mood shifts
dealing with guilt
handling criticism
being positive
This book has a 4.3-star rating on Amazon, and it costs about $15 on Kindle, $18 in paperback, and $40 in hardcover.

16 of the best self-help books

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Self-help books may benefit people experiencing certain mental health conditions, as they can provide techniques and strategies to navigate difficult situations and feelings.

This article features 16 self-help books to consider and explains what each has to offer.

A quick look at our pick of the best self-help books
Best for negative thinking: Declutter Your Mind
Best for living in the present moment: A New Earth
Best for depression: Your Happiness Toolkit
Best for insomnia: Say Good Night to Insomnia
Best for trauma and PTSD: Struggle Well: Thriving in the Aftermath of Trauma
Best for stress: The Strengths-Based Workbook for Stress Relief
Best for productivity: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Best for creativity: Big Magic
Best for a financial roadmap: The One-Page Financial Plan
Best for parenting: The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read
Best for organization: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
Best for mindfulness: The Power of Awakening
Best for personal fulfillment: The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life
Best for physical health and well-being: Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art
Best for twenty-somethings: The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and How to Make the Most of Them Now
Best for understanding human emotions: Atlas of the Heart
About self-help books
Self-help refers to using specific tools to navigate and improve certain situations or mental states.

A 2017 trialTrusted Source found that self-help strategies, including books, could help bridge gaps in professional mental health care plans.

How a person may benefit from self-help books
Self-help books can enable a person to put coping techniques into place themselves, without the need for a therapist, between therapy sessions, or in addition to a treatment plan.

An older 2014 study using self-help books on mindfulness found this was an effective intervention method for depression, anxiety, and stress, in a sample of students.

Our picks of the best self-help books
In the list of books below, we cover various topics and techniques a person may consider.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication. Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

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Best self-help book for negative thinking: Declutter Your Mind
This book may benefit people with anxiety or those who experience unhelpful and difficult thoughts.

It uses mindfulness techniques to help reframe unhelpful thoughts and improve or end difficult relationships.

It also includes information about meditation, deep breathing, and goal-setting practices.

Declutter Your Mind costs around $4 on Kindle or around $15 in paperback.

Best self-help book for living in the present moment: A New Earth
Published in 2008, this book by bestselling author Eckhart Tolle remains popular. It focuses on mindfulness and spirituality.

A New Earth aims to teach people how to live in the moment and navigate conflict and difficulties more effectively.

It costs around $14 on Kindle or around $7 in paperback.

Carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient found in a wide variety of foods. They serve as a primary source of energy for the body and play a crucial role in various physiological functions. In this article, we will explore 15 intriguing facts about carbohydrates, shedding light on their types, functions, and their impact on our health.

Table of Contents
What Are Carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates are organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. They are classified into three main types: sugars, starches, and fibers.

The Role of Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide energy to the body, particularly to the brain and muscles. They are broken down into glucose, which is used as fuel for cellular processes and physical activity.

Simple Carbohydrates: The Sugars
White sugar cubes in a wooden bowl on the table.
Image from Adobe Stock
Simple carbohydrates, also known as sugars, are composed of one or two sugar molecules. Common examples include glucose, fructose, and sucrose. They are quickly digested and provide a rapid source of energy.

READ ALSO: UTI vs Yeast Infections Whats the Difference

Complex Carbohydrates: The Starches
Complex carbohydrates, or starches, are made up of multiple sugar molecules linked together. Foods such as grains, legumes, and potatoes contain starches. They take longer to break down and provide sustained energy.

The Fiber Connection
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that cannot be digested by humans. It passes through the digestive system largely intact, providing bulk and promoting healthy bowel movements. High-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

The Glycemic Index
The glycemic index (GI) is a scale that ranks carbohydrate-containing foods based on their effect on blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI, such as white bread and sugary drinks, cause a rapid increase in blood sugar, while low GI foods, like whole grains and vegetables, result in a slower and more gradual rise.

Good Carbs vs. Bad Carbs
Carbohydrates often get a bad reputation, but it’s important to distinguish between good and bad carbs. Good carbs come from whole, unprocessed foods and provide essential nutrients and fiber. Bad carbs, on the other hand, come from refined and processed sources with added sugars and lack beneficial nutrients.

In today’s digital age, technology has transformed how we communicate, work, and entertain ourselves, from smartphones and social media to virtual reality and artificial intelligence. This article explores ten essential facts about how technology affects mental health.

Increased Screen Time and Mental Health
Little girl having fun using tablet
Image from Adobe Stock
The widespread adoption of smartphones, tablets, and computers has significantly increased our screen time, which has implications for mental health. Excessive screen time has been associated with various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, leading to difficulties falling asleep and maintaining a healthy sleep routine. Moreover, spending prolonged periods in front of screens can negatively impact our circadian rhythm, affecting our natural sleep-wake cycle and leading to feelings of fatigue and irritability.

Excessive screen time can also contribute to attention difficulties and reduced concentration. Constant exposure to digital stimuli, such as notifications and multiple browser tabs, can decrease the ability to focus and sustain attention. This can affect productivity, performance in academic or professional settings, and overall cognitive functioning.

Furthermore, excessive screen time can contribute to feelings of isolation and social disconnection. Spending significant amounts of time engaged in online activities may replace face-to-face interactions and reduce the opportunities for meaningful social connections. This lack of social engagement can lead to feelings of loneliness, which can contribute to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

It is essential to establish healthy boundaries to mitigate the negative impact of increased screen time. Setting limits on daily screen time, incorporating regular screen-free breaks, and practicing digital mindfulness can help restore balance and promote mental well-being. Engaging in offline activities, such as physical exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones, can provide a much-needed break from screens and contribute to overall mental health.

Social Media and Mental Health
woman using smart phone for social network media
Image from Adobe Stock
Social media platforms have become integral to our social lives, allowing us to connect with others, share experiences, and stay informed. However, excessive use of social media can have detrimental effects on mental health. One of the critical factors is the tendency for individuals to engage in social comparison. People often compare their lives, achievements, and appearance to others’ curated online profiles, leading to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depressive symptoms.

The pressure to portray a perfect life on social media, driven by the desire for validation and likes, can contribute to anxiety and stress. Individuals may feel compelled to constantly present themselves in a positive light, creating a sense of inauthenticity and increasing the fear of judgment or social exclusion. Additionally, cyberbullying on social media platforms can significantly impact mental health. Cyberbullying victims may experience increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.

To maintain a healthy relationship with social media, one must be mindful of one’s usage patterns and emotional responses. Setting boundaries on social media usage, unfollowing accounts that trigger negative emotions, and engaging in activities that foster self-esteem and real-life connections can help mitigate the negative impact. Building a supportive online network and promoting positive interactions within online communities can also contribute to a more positive social media experience.

All about antidepressants
Types
Side effects
Uses
Efficacy
Choosing
In pregnancy and nursing
Alternatives
How they work
Taking effect
Treatment duration
Summary
Antidepressants help relieve the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Common examples include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine (Cymbalta).

They work by correcting chemical imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain. Experts believe these are responsible for changes in mood and behavior.

This article will cover the different types of antidepressants, how they work, their side effects, other uses, and alternative options.

Types
blackCAT/Getty Images
Doctors tend to divide antidepressants into different types. These include:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs are a first-lineTrusted Source treatment option for depression.

Examples of SSRIs include:

citalopram (Celexa)
escitalopram (Lexapro)
fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem)
fluvoxamine (Luvox)
paroxetine (Paxil)
sertraline (Zoloft)
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs are a newer class of antidepressant compared with SSRIs. However, they work in a similar way.

Doctors may prescribe SNRIs for:

attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
anxiety disorders
menopausal symptoms
fibromyalgia
chronic neuropathic pain
Examples of SNRIs include:

duloxetine (Cymbalta)
venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
Doctors may recommend TCAs for depression, fibromyalgia, some types of anxiety, and chronic pain.

Examples include:

amitriptyline
amoxapine
clomipramine (Anafranil)
desipramine (Norpramin)
doxepin (Sinequan)
imipramine (Tofranil)
nortriptyline (Pamelor)
protriptyline (Vivactil)
trimipramine (Surmontil)
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Due to their adverse side effects and drug-drug interactions, doctors do not typicallyTrusted Source suggest MAOIs as a first-line treatment option for depression. However, they may be an option if SSRIs do not work for depression.

Examples include:

phenelzine (Nardil)
tranylcypromine (Parnate)
isocarboxazid (Marplan)
selegiline (Emsam, Eldepryl)
Noradrenaline and specific serotoninergic antidepressants (NaSSAs)
Doctors use NaSSAs to treat anxiety disorders and depression.

Examples include mianserin (Tolvon) and mirtazapine (Remeron, Avanza, Zispin).

Side effects
It is important to note that all drugsTrusted Source have side effects. Different antidepressants have different side effects. However, not everyone will experience them.

SSRIs and SNRIs
SSRIs and SNRIs can lead to:

nausea and anxiety for the first couple of weeks, according to 2010 research
indigestion
headache
s*xual dysfunction
SNRIs can also cause an increase in blood pressure. A person with a serious heart condition should not take the SNRI venlafaxine.

TCAs
TCAs may have the following side effects:

dry mouth
tremor
fast heartbeat
constipation
insomnia
weight gain
MAOIs
MAOIs can interact with other drugs. For example, if a person combined an MAOI with an SSRI, it could lead to serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a serious condition in which a person has too much serotonin in their body.

MAOIs can also lead to:

dry mouth
diarrhea
nausea
drowsiness
constipation
dizziness
insomnia
lightheadedness
s*xual dysfunction
MAOIs prevent the breakdown of tyramine. If a person consumes foods that contain tyramine, such as sausages, fish, and overripe fruit, it can leadTrusted Source to a hypertensive crisis. This is a severe increase in blood pressure that can lead to a stroke.

NaSSAs
These antidepressants can lead to side effects similar to SSRIs and SNRIs. They can also cause drowsiness and weight gain. However, they are less likely to cause s*xual dysfunction, according to 2010 research.

Rarer side effects
Su***de prevention
If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, su***de, or hurting another person:

Ask the tough question: “Are you considering su***de?”
Listen to the person without judgment.
Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of su***de, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

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Rarer side effects of antidepressants include:

Suicidal thoughts: Some studiesTrusted Source have found that young adults and children may be at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts when they first start taking antidepressants. If side effects are very unpleasant, or if they include thinking about su***de, the person should speak with a doctor straight away.
Withdrawal symptoms: Some people who take SSRIs and SNRIs experience some withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the medication. Withdrawal symptoms can last for 1–2 weeksTrusted Source, and can include:
anxiety
dizziness
nightmares or vivid dreams
electric shock-like sensations in the body
flu-like symptoms
abdominal pain
Uses
Doctors recommend antidepressants to treat:

depression and major depressive disorder
generalized anxiety disorder
panic attacks
chronic pain
OCD
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
social anxiety disorder
Effectiveness
Antidepressants tend to be effective. However, everyone responds to medication differently.

According to the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, 40–60% of peopleTrusted Source who took an SSRI or SNRI for depression noticed some symptom relief within 6–8 weeks.

The research notes that the more severe the depression, the greater the benefits of antidepressants may be.

Finding the best option
There are many types of antidepressants. They all work differently and have different benefits, risks, and side effects.

A person should speak with a doctor about their individual circumstances. The doctor will help them find the best treatment option for them.

Safest ED pills: What are they? Any ED pill that a doctor prescribes is safe. However, as with all medications, a person may experience some side effects. Learn about the safest ED pills here.

Ed injections: What are the best erectile dysfunction injections? There are many types of erectile dysfunction injections. Here, we review some of the best erectile dysfunction injections a doctor can prescribe.

Chest pain in women: What causes it, and how do doctors diagnose it?
Symptoms
Other causes
When to see a doctor
Diagnosis
Treatment
Summary
Chest pain or discomfort can indicate a heart attack in both males and females, but it can also result from heartburn, lung problems, and other issues.

In some cases, pain or discomfort may be due to other causes, such as heartburn, reflux, a lung-related issue, or another problem affecting the heart. Although some possible causes of chest pain are less serious, a woman should seek help immediately as this symptom may indicate a medical emergency.

In this article, we provide more information on the typical female signs and symptoms of a heart attack and discuss other possible causes of chest pain.

A note about s*x and gender
S*x and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to s*x assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

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Symptoms of a heart attack in women
A person should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of a heart attack.
According to the Centers for Disease Control And Prevention (CDC), 1 in 4 male deathsTrusted Source and 1 in 5 female deathsTrusted Source are due to heart disease. Heart disease refers to several conditions that affect this organ, including heart attack.

Men and women tend to show different signs of a heart attack.

Women are less likely than males to feel an overwhelming amount of pressure in their chest. Instead, they are more likely to experience dizziness, fatigue, or nausea. They may also have pain in both arms, rather than just the left arm.

Any woman who experiences any of these symptoms should call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA)Trusted Source, the typical symptoms of heart attacks in women include:

chest pain or discomfort
shortness of breath
cold sweat, lightheadedness, or nausea
discomfort, numbness, or pain in one or both arms, the neck, stomach, jaw, or back
a squeezing sensation, pain, uncomfortable pressure, or fullness in the center of the chest
The sensations affecting the chest tend to last for more than a few minutes or stop before starting again.

Other causes of chest pain
There are several other possible causes of chest pain in women.

Although many causes are not as severe as a heart attack, they may still require medical attention.

Heart-related conditions
Some heart-related conditions that may cause chest pain include:

myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle
angina, which is pain resulting from the heart not getting enough blood
cardiomyopathy, which is a disease of the heart muscle
pericarditis, which is inflammation of the sac around the heart
aortic dissection, which is a rare condition in which there is a tear in the aorta
Gastrointestinal complications
In some cases, chest pain may be due to gastrointestinal complications and conditions. These may include:

heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
inflamed gallbladder or pancreas
gallstones
Lung-related conditions
Other possible causes of chest pain have an association with the lungs and can include:

bronchitis
collapsed lung
pneumonia
pulmonary embolism, which is a type of blood clot
bronchospasm
Bone or muscle problems
In other cases, a woman may experience chest pain due to issues with the bones or muscles.

A broken or bruised rib can cause pain and swelling, while chronic pain syndrome and the overexertion of muscles can both cause pain in the chest.

A compression fracture may put pressure on a nerve, causing pain.

When to go to a doctor
Anyone with unexplained chest pain should see a doctor, who can run tests to determine the underlying cause and suggest appropriate treatments.

Diagnosis
Typically, a doctor will ask several questions about the person’s individual and family medical history. They will also ask about other symptoms and the medications that a person is taking.

Knowing this information can help the doctor rule out some possible causes.

In addition, the doctor may run one or more tests to determine the cause of the pain. These tests might include:

A chest X-ray: An X-ray allows the doctor to look at the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
Blood tests: These tests measure enzyme levels in the blood.
An MRI: This scan can reveal any damage to the heart or aorta.
An angiogram: Doctors use this exam to check for blockages in specific arteries.
An electrocardiogram (EKG): This test records the heart’s electrical activity.
Stress tests: Doctors use these to measure heart function after exertion.
An echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses sound waves to record moving images of the heart.
Treatment options
A doctor may prescribe one of several treatment options, depending on their diagnosis and the results of the tests. The underlying cause of the pain will often determine the urgency and extent of the treatment.

If the chest pain is due to issues with the heart, the doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatments:

cardiac catheterization, which is a procedure to open blocked arteries
medications that open closed arteries, break down clots, or thin the blood
surgery to repair arteries
In cases where the cause of the chest pain does not relate to the heart, a doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

antacids or acid reducers to help prevent reflux and heartburn
reinflation of a collapsed lung
anxiety medication
Summary
Women should take sudden or unexplained chest pain seriously, particularly if they experience any other symptoms of a heart attack.

It is beneficial to talk to a doctor about any chest pain because treatment can usually help alleviate the pain and heal the underlying condition.

What different eating disorders are there?
Bulimia
Anorexia
Binge eating disorder
Rumination disorder
Pica
ARFID
Other disorders
Summary
An eating disorder is a term that covers a range of conditions involving abnormal or disrupted eating. This may involve over or undereating or eating nonfood items.

Approximately 28.8 million Americans will develop an eating disorder during their lifetime.

The exact cause of eating disorders is often unclear, but sociocultural, biological, and psychological factors influence their development.

Many people may think of anorexia or bulimia when they think of eating disorders. Although these disorders are the most common, there are several other types.

Below, we provide information on some of the most common eating disorders, including their typical signs and symptoms.

Bulimia nervosa
Getty Images
Bulimia nervosa, which most people call bulimia, is a condition that typically develops during adolescence or early adulthood.

Individuals with bulimia tend to eat large quantities of food very quickly, which people often call “binge eating” or a “binge.”

After overeating, a person with bulimia typically purges their body of the extra calories. Common purging methods include:

self-induced vomiting
taking diuretics
taking laxatives
Not everyone with bulimia will use these methods of purging. Some people try to counter the high calorie intake by fasting and exercising excessively.

Signs and symptoms
The characteristics of bulimia include the following thoughts, feelings, and behaviors:

an obsession with body weight and size
repeat binging episodes that accompany a sense of loss of control
purging episodes to prevent weight gain
a general fear of gaining weight
Some people with bulimia lose weight, but others maintain their body weight. In either case, a person may develop the following side effects:

acid reflux
a sore or inflamed throat
tooth decay
severe dehydration
electrolyte imbalances that can lead to stroke or heart attack
Eating disorders can severely affect the quality of life of people living with these conditions and those close to them. Early intervention and treatment greatly improve the likelihood of recovery.

Anyone who suspects they or a loved one may have an eating disorder can contact the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, which offers a daytime helpline staffed by licensed therapists and an online search tool for treatment options.

For general mental health support at any time, people can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 24 hours a day at 1-800-662-4357 (or 1-800-487-4889 for TTY).

Many other resources are also available, including:

The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders
F.E.A.S.T., which provides support and educational resources to friends and family who want to help someone living with an eating disorder
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Anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa, or anorexia, is one of the more well-known eating disorders.

As with bulimia, anorexia tends to developTrusted Source in adolescence or early adulthood, which is more common among women than men.

There are two recognized subtypes of anorexia:

Binge eating and purging type: A person with this type of anorexia typically purges after eating. They may sometimes eat large amounts of food. Alternatively, the person might engage in excessive exercise to burn off their consumed calories.
Restricting type: People with this type of anorexia do not binge eat. Instead, they turn to dieting, fasting, or overexercising to lose weight.
Signs and symptoms
Typical signs and symptoms of anorexia include:

very restricted eating habits
being underweight compared with others of a similar height and age
a fear of gaining weight, even when already underweight
an obsession with being thinner
a distorted view of the body
basing self-esteem on body weight or shape
the avoidance of eating in public or with others
obsessive-compulsive tendencies, in some people
Binge eating disorder
Similar to bulimia or the binge eating type of anorexia, people with binge eating disorder typically consume a large amount of food very quickly. However, they do not restrict their calorie intake at other times or purge the excess food that they consume.

Binge eating carries the risk of weight gain, and many people with this disorder are overweight or have obesity.

Signs and symptoms
A person may have binge eating disorder if they:

feel a lack of control when eating
feel shame or disgust when thinking about their binge eating
consume food in private