Bulimia nervosa

What is bulimia?

Bulimia nervosa is a type of eating disorder. Eating disorder is the term used to describe a group of illnesses where someone has a distorted view of body image and extreme disturbances in eating behaviour. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder are all different types of eating disorders. You may want to check out the factsheets on the left hand side of the page for more information on other eating disorders.

People experiencing bulimia go on regular eating "binges", which involve consuming large amounts of food in relatively discrete periods of time whilst accompanied by feelings of being out of control of one's food intake. The binge eating is usually followed by feelings of guilt and anxiety about becoming fat which results in a need to get rid of the food.

Common ways of getting rid of food may include:

• over exercising to burn the calories
• "throwing up"
• taking laxatives, diuretics or diet pills
• not eating for several days after the binge.

Bingeing may be used as a way of coping with anger, depression, stress and sadness.

Some of the common signs of bulimia may be:

• eating unusually large amounts of food
• being secretive about what is eaten and when
• visiting the bathroom after eating
• over exercising
• being very critical of one's self
• moody
• depression
• regularly tired/lacking energy
• sore throat
• decaying teeth

If you are experiencing a number of these things, it may be helpful to go and talk with someone you trust like a family member, teacher, counsellor or local doctor. Check out your local phone book or contact your local community health centre to find a counsellor or doctor in your area.

What causes bulimia

Like other eating disorders bulimia is a combination of physical and mental health difficulties and the cause is not clear. However, a number of factors may be associated with bulimia. These may include:

• physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• cultural emphasis on slimness 
• preoccupation with body image ideals
• relationships with peers or family
• loss and grief
• brain chemistry
• physiological and psychological effects of dieting
• stress or coping styles

Suggestions for help

The reasons that people experience bulimia may differ from person to person and the options for treatment may also differ from person to person. Your local doctor, nutritionist or counsellor should be able to talk with you about what options are available and which may be best for you. If necessary they can also refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist. To find a doctor or mental health professional see the beyondblue Directory of Medical and Allied Health Practitioners in Mental Health http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=107.1007

A counsellor or psychologist will talk with you about your food and weight beliefs and behaviours. They may also explore the reasons why you may have developed these beliefs and behaviours. This can be done in a group situation or in a one on one situation. It is a good idea to talk with your counsellor as to which is the best option for you.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to the Nutrition Australia for editing this fact sheet.