Bulimia Nervosa

So much of the time this eating disorder goes undetected. If you have think someone may be suffering from bulimia look for the signs and symptoms. If you note these symptoms and the "victim" is not an adult then tell someone who can get help for this individual. This may or may not be the parents or caregiver. If at all possible tell someone the sufferers will trust, it will make it easier on seeking help. Chances are if you mention it to the person with the eating disorder, they will more than likely deny it or say that they have it under control. If it's an adult then find someone that they trust and tell them. That could be a spouse or best friend. Whatever you do try to find them help, you may be the one who saves their life.

These are the symptoms you are looking for.

uncontrolled eating

eating large amounts of food at one sitting

eating a lot with no change in weight

cuts on knuckles or back of hand, usually caused by sticking and or fingers in throat

redden eyes, usually caused by excessive vomiting

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Getting set free from this obsession takes time. Patience will be your best friend if you are a family member of a bulimic patent. As a "support line" to the one suffering from this disorder you can do a few things that will help with the healing process. Don't put any pressure on the person by setting deadlines or unrealistic goals. You need to remember the recovery rate is on the patent's timetable and not yours. Give a lot of hope and encouragement. Celebrate every small success and remember to praise them often. If setbacks occurs give positive feedback and keep on encouraging them not to give up.

Other tips that will help the healing/recovery process.

be a positive role model for eating the healthy way.

don't talk about your eating habits or any negative words on the issue of eating or dieting
educate yourself and those who will be support line for the "victim"

educate yourself to help them to avoid setbacks, failure and any challenges that they may be facing
learn to listen really listen..a real listener can help speed up the recovery time
remember this recovery is about them not you

don't offer advice unless instructed by the medical staff

don't become preoccupied with their eating disorder...whatever you do don't neglect your own needs
if you need a support group to help you cope and get through this then do it, don't make a big deal about it either


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If looks can be deceptive it would be this: one can't look at a person and tell they suffer from a eating disorders. More and more "normal weight" and even "overweight" people suffer from this disorder. Perhaps the key factor that we should be looking at is why or what motivates a person to eat. If it is based on psychological instead of physical needs that should send up warning signs and fireworks. If this is you or someone you know first thing to remember is don't panic. Seek out appropriate help. If this person isn't an adult then tell someone that they trust which could be parents or a teacher. If it's an adult tell someone that they will trust. Guide them into finding medical assistance. Don't be pushy this will only delay the much needed help.

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