Bulimia Support Groups Important to Recovery

Written by Natasha Tracy

A bulimia support group can be essential in initial and long-term recovery from bulimia. Bulimia is a devastating eating disorder that can cause severe side effects, up to and including death, if not properly treated. Research shows that 1% - 3% of women (and a growing number of men) will suffer from bulimia nervosa at some point in their lives and bulimia support groups are one of the places these people, and their families, can get help.

These groups are often a part of other eating disorder support groups. They are most appropriate when:

• The patient is getting other forms of treatment
• The eating disorder is not severe and there are no additional health concerns
• The person is in recovery

What Are Bulimia Support Groups?

A bulimia support group is a group of people who come together to support those with bulimia and other eating disorders. The specific members and philosophies of each support group may differ, but the goals of a bulimia support group remain the same:

• To create an open, welcoming environment where participants can express their stories, their struggles and successes without fear of judgment or negativity
• To give participants positive encouragement through the sharing of positive recovery stories, interpersonal support and the sense that the bulimic is not alone
• To offer hope and help

While these support groups generally meet in person or online, many also send printed or electronic newsletters to keep in touch with their members.