Bulimia

Bulimia is an illness in which a person binges on food or has regular episodes of overeating and feels a loss of control. The person then uses different methods such as vomiting, abusing laxatives and excessive exercise to prevent weight gain. The individual suffering from bulimia is usually aware that his/her eating pattern is abnormal and may feel fear or guilt over the binge-purge episodes. In bulimia, eating binges may occur as often as several times a day for many months or even years. People with bulimia often eat large amounts of high-calorie foods, typically in secret. They feel a lack of control over their eating during these episodes. Binges lead to self-disgust, which causes purging to prevent weight gain. Purging often brings a sense of relief, but only temporarily.

Eating disorders are very dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible. Signs that a loved one may be bulimic include:

• Compulsive exercise

• Buying large amounts of food that disappear right away

• Regularly going to the bathroom right after meals

• Discarded packages of laxatives, diet pills, emetics (drugs that cause vomiting) or diuretics

Anorexia

People who have anorexia have an intense fear gaining weight.They severely limit the amount of food they eat and are generally dangerously thin. Anorexia affects both the body and the mind. It may start as dieting, but it gets out of control. Anorexics think about food, dieting and weight all the time, and generally have a distorted body image. Anorexia usually starts in the teen years and is much more common in females than males. Early treatment can be very effective, but if not treated right away anorexia can become a lifelong problem. Untreated anorexia can lead to starvation and serious health problems, such as bone thinning, (osteoporosis), kidney damage, heart problems and even death. If you or someone you know has anorexia, seek help immediately. Research shows that it is the most lethal of all mental health disorders.

Eating disorders are very difficult issues to face. Shame, embarrassment if someone else finds out about the eating disorder is one of the emotional layers that is often a constant worry. This constant cover-up takes a lot of emotional energy. Suncrest counseling is here to help you. Let the team of therapists at Suncrest customize your treatment, so the plan will fit your needs and schedule. There is hope. You can get your life back!