Anorexia and Bulimia: Signs and Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms of Anorexia:

Signs and Symptoms of Bulimia:

Some people can suffer with a combination of anorexia and bulimia, or anorexia can develop into bulimia. Dieting and food restriction can be triggers for bulimia because the body is starving and this can lead to binge behaviour. Binges are then followed by extreme guilt and vomiting provides relief. This release of food can provide not only physical relief but emotional release with a discharge of emotions that are held in. n

Treatment for Eating Disorders:

It is important to understand the way these eating practices help each person as it differs between individuals. Because the problem does help in the short run, it leaves people feeling ambivalent about getting totally rid of this problem. In the long run the habit of either food restriction or binging and purging creates another problem requiring attention and is not effective as a coping strategy in the long run with the initial triggers. This means that treatment must include help that addresses the food and physical health but also the emotional health and coping strategies to replace the food habit as a way of coping with distress. Some people suffer with additional problems such as depression that pre-dates the eating disorder, anxiety problems or addiction issues. These all need to be addressed together as they interconnect.

Treatment initially involves an assessment with a team who specialize in Eating Disorders. They will suggest the intensity of treatment which may include outpatient medical and nutritional support as well as individual and family therapy. Family therapy is highly recommended with children and youth who are facing an eating disorder as parents are in a position to assist their son or daughter in dealing with the problem and they also need help themselves to cope as eating disorders profoundly affect all family members. Parent support groups can also be a great help for parents.