BULIMIA NERVOSA

Bulimia Nervosa appears to affect women more than men, and usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood.  It can result in medical problems that may be hard to recognize, and therefore it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.  Depression, anxiety and substance abuse may co-occur with bulimia nervosa.  I provide psychotherapy for adolescents or adults with bulimia nervosa.  My San Jose private practice serves the south bay area including Los Gatos, Saratoga, San Jose, Campbell, Cupertino, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Morgan Hill. 

Some common symptoms of bulimia nervosa may include:

1.   Eating excessive amounts of food in a discrete period of time (binge).
   

2.   Compensating for bingeing by intentionally vomiting, over-exercising, fasting, and use of laxatives or diuretics.
   

3.   Negative self-image.
   

4.   Focus on weight.
   

5.   Poor body image.
   

6.   Symptoms of anxiety (such as fear of social situations).
   

7.   Increased isolation and secretive behaviors.
   

Some common treatment goals may include:

1.   Restore normal eating of nutritious foods.
   

2.   Gain insight into issues that trigger the binge/purge cycle.
   

3.   Develop alternative coping skills to deal with emotions and anxiety.
   

4.   Gain awareness of societal roles that trigger obsessive thoughts of thinness.
   

5.   Develop a healthy body image.
   

6.   Correct distorted thought processes that contribute to eating disorder behaviors.
   

7.   Develop a healthy lifestyle.
   

© 2009 - Terryann Sanders.  All rights reserved.