What is Bulimia Nervosa? Basic Information About Bulimia - Information On Bulimia Treatment

Written by Natasha Tracy

Information on Bulimia Treatment

While hospitalization may be necessary for bulimics who are in danger of having a heart attack or other serious medical problems, most cases of bulimia are treated outside the hospital (read: Bulimia Treatment Centers). But even as families learn bulimia information, it can be very difficult for them to help during the treatment of an eating disorder. Dr. Deanne Pearson, whose doctoral dissertation focused on athletes with eating disorders, explains:

"...it is important that parents understand this "monster" [eating disorder] ...takes over the personality, and realize that anything they say to their daughters "will be taken and used against them." This element of the eating disorder frequently confuses parents... As parents try to say helpful things, they find that their words are rejected over and over again. But... they should realize that the "monster" control element ...is rejecting them, while their daughter, trapped in a prison of self-destruction, loves and needs them very much.¹"

It's important to remember what bulimia is: bulimia is a disease, and bulimics should be presented with information on bulimia and not be punished for it. Judith Asner, MSW, with over 20 years of experience treating bulimics, explains:

"Punishment doesn't help anything ...you can appeal to their intellect ...you can present them with literature on the facts of eating disorders and talk to them about your concerns and try to encourage them to seek help, but punishment doesn't help.²"

(Get comprehensive information on bulimia treatment)

Information On Bulimia Recovery

Recovery from bulimia is possible but is hard work and relapse is a real possibility. Bulimics need information on bulimia and supportive people around them to keep them on track, explains Asner.

"...the more accepting you [the bulimic] are of yourself, the more you can be honest about who you are with others, and you can ask them to help you in any way you need to be helped. The support of people who are there for you is essential.⁴"

The road to bulimia recovery can include therapists, nutritionists, doctors, support groups, family and friends, but it's important not to give up, "It is never too late to get well ...I see many women who do recover after 15 or even 25 years," says Asner.