Other sites in our network: What's on TV | Now | Pick Me Up | Puzzles and Prizes

What are the treatments for Bulimia Nervosa?

Average rating:

The aim of treatment is to:

Reduce risk of harm which can be caused by bulimia.
Encourage healthy eating.
Reduce other related symptoms and problems.
Help people become both physically and mentally stronger.

Many people who see their GP with bulimia will be referred to a specialist mental health team. Members of the team may include psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, dieticians and other professionals.

The sort of treatments that may be offered include the following:

Help with eating. Having regular meals is better, even if you only eat small meals it is beneficial to the body to eat at least three times a day. You should try and be honest (to yourself and other people) about the amount of food you are actually eating. You should reduce the number of times you weight yourself; try to only weigh yourself once a week. It may be useful to have an eating diary to write down all the food that you eat.

Psychological ('talking') treatments. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used psychological treatment for bulimia. It helps you to look at the reasons why you developed bulimia, aims to change any false beliefs that you have about your weight and body and how to deal with emotional issues. Talking treatments take time and usually require regular sessions over several months.

Treatment may also involve other members of your family going to meetings to discuss any family issues. However, CBT does not suit everyone. About a third of people drop out before finishing the course. Other forms of psychological treatments may also be used. One recent research study found that a specialised form of CBT can provide a good chance of recovery.

Medication may be advised by your doctor. The most commonly used medicines are SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressants. These are are used to treat depression, but in higher doses one called fluoxetine can reduce the urge for binging or purging.

Treatment of any physical or teeth problems that may occur. This may include taking potassium supplements, dental care and not using laxatives.

Self-help measures

There are a number of self-help books and manuals available. These provide strategies in how to cope with, and overcome, bulimia. Some people find these very helpful and prefer them to 'formal' treatment. (The organisation called 'beat', details at the end, may be able to suggest current titles.) It is certainly worth trying a self-help manual if there is a waiting list or difficulty in getting psychological treatment.