Bulimia Nervosa

When people with Bulimia have feelings they find hard to cope with, they will typically go to the food cupboard or fridge and eat as much as they can, as quickly as possible. Afterwards they usually feel physically and emotionally sick, and guilty about their behaviour. To try to compensate / resolve their guilt they may make themselves sick, starve themselves for a few days or take large amounts of laxatives to get rid of the food they have eaten.

Often bulimics feel ashamed or disgusted by what they do to themselves. They try to keep their behaviour a secret, not wanting to admit to others what is happening. They may feel inadequate, unattractive or worthless. They may act impulsively, sometimes regretting their actions, and have mood swings.

Many people with bulimia seem outwardly to be popular and able to cope well with their lives. But inside they often feel worthless and a fraud. They may feel vulnerable, scared, helpless and lonely; or think that if people really knew what they were like they would be rejected.

They often feel trapped in a cycle of bingeing and then punishing themselves, with no escape.

Repeatedly taking laxatives and making themselves sick will damage your health. If you are caught in this cycle you may experience any of the following: tooth decay, mouth ulcers, bad breath, throat infections, stomach disorders, fits, dehydration, hair loss, kidney and bowel problems. In girls, periods may become irregular or stop altogether. Left unchecked, Bulimia in it's more advanced stages can be fatal.

Symptoms may include the following:

If you think you or somebody you know has bulimia it is important that you get some support. If you can, talk to a friend or relative that you trust, a teacher or your GP, or click on the other links in this section to find out some more useful contacts.

Acceptance
Support
Information