The Signs & Treatment for Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa is a life-threatening illness characterized by cycles of binge eating followed by the use of compensatory behaviors, and has a high mortality rate due to the stress it causes on the heart and other organs. Due to the secrecy around bulimic behaviors and a limited understanding of what bulimia may “look like,” this disorder often goes undetected. Furthermore, nearly half of those suffering from bulimia will experience other mental health concerns such as mood or anxiety disorders. Among those struggling with bulimia, one in ten also struggles with a substance use disorder.

Signs of Bulimia Nervosa include:

• Uncontrolled eating outside of hunger
• A pattern of eating to the point of pain or far past fullness
• Vomiting or use of laxatives, diet pills, or diuretics
• Exercise to compensate for eating
• Intense, frequent, and long periods of exercise
• Hiding or hoarding food
• Fear of eating socially
• Distorted perception of body weight and shape
• Loss of interest in activities and relationships that were once meaningful
• Isolation and hopelessness
• Periods of starvation and severe calorie restriction

Our Approach to Patient Care

Reasons takes a unique perspective on treating individuals with bulimia. We work closely with each patient to understand the meaning and complexity of their bingeing and purging behavior. Regardless of diagnosis, our philosophy is that food is medicine, and we address nutritional restoration needs through the use of our E.A.T. model.

We believe that eating disorders are rooted in and driven by anxiety and profound disruptions to the sufferers’ sense of self. We offer our patients hope, rooted in the belief that they are capable of living an authentic life of meaning and connectedness. Our goal is to create a culture that nurtures the integration of body and mind.

At Reasons Eating Disorder Center, we tailor treatment plans to the needs of each patient for each level of care, restoring physical and mental health as you go through the bulimia therapy process and discover new ways to enjoy your life, your spirit and your physical self. From somatic therapies to individualized meal plans, our staff will customize a treatment plan and schedule that will help you down the path toward wholeness.

If you’re seeking a bulimia treatment program, Reason’s gender-inclusive programs help adolescents and adults across multiple levels of care. Our ability to handle acute medical issues and provide specialized nursing care differentiates our services from other bulimia treatment centers in the region.