Struggles with Compulsive Overeating Disorder (Bulimia Nervosa) in Daily Life
Bulimia Nervosa is a common eating disorder that affects people of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, body shapes, and weights. Approximately 10% of the total population of the United States will have bulimia at some point in their lives.
People with bulimia often have feelings of stress and worry about food and eating. This preoccupation with food and eating is accompanied by an obsession with body shape and weight. The obsession can lead to compulsive behaviors with food, weight, and eating.
Bulimia nervosa is often linked with other mental health conditions. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), 95% of people with bulimia meet the criteria for one or more mental health conditions. Anxiety disorders are the most common coexisting condition, with approximately 54 to 81% of people with bulimia also living with an anxiety disorder. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is the most common type of anxiety disorder to coexist with an eating disorder.
The continuous cycle of bingeing and purging can cause damage to the organs, leading to complications affecting the gastrointestinal system, the heart, and more. Common complications include dizziness or feeling faint, damaged or inflamed esophagus, ulcers, feeling cold all the time, inflammation of the pancreas, trouble falling asleep, tooth decay, swelling of the jaw and cheeks, weak muscles, dry or brittle hair and nails, low blood pressure, constipation or acid reflux, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, kidney failure, and more.
Research suggests a connection between PTSD, trauma, and eating disorders. People with bulimia may use bingeing and purging as a way to manage PTSD symptoms or as a coping tool to deal with unresolved trauma. The study found that about one-third of women participants with bulimia experienced PTSD at some point in their lives.
Recovery for bulimia is a long-term, continuous process that involves strategies to build a healthy relationship with food and exercise, address any underlying medical or mental health issues, and challenge unhealthy eating behaviors and thoughts. Treatment for bulimia may involve medical treatment for any health issues or complications, nutritional counseling, therapy, inpatient care, support programs, and ongoing care from a healthcare team.
A strong support system is key to recovery and healing. This can be found through the NEDA support page which connects to forums, local and virtual support groups, recovery mentors, and more. Gardening, expressive or creative art therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions, such as meditation, can also help promote recovery and healing by improving mood and lowering anxiety.
If you have bulimia, consider talking with a healthcare professional who can refer you to an eating disorder specialist for an in-depth evaluation and a tailored treatment plan. With the right support, you can reduce these complications and lower your chance of serious long-term health issues.
It's important to note that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are less likely to receive eating disorder diagnoses or treatment, but they are more likely to engage in bulimia-related behaviors than their white peers. Telehealth or online therapy might be available options if you don't have insurance.
LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to have eating disorders than their heterosexual, cisgender peers. If they remain untreated, these conditions can become severe, even life threatening. If you or someone you know is struggling with bulimia or any other eating disorder, seek help immediately. With the right support, recovery is possible.
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