When someone becomes focused on just weight loss and food, it is time to get help. Bulimia Nervosa is a life threatening eating disorder. People with bulimia secretly binge on large amounts of food and throw it up. It can be hard as a parent to watch your child go through such a serious condition. Here are three ways you can help someone with bulimia.
Schedule A Doctor Appointment
If you suspect that your child has an eating disorder, but he or she denies it, then you schedule an appointment with your family doctor. It is easier for some kids to admit they have a problem to someone outside of their immediate family. A doctor can also provide immediate medical attention if your child has signs of serious health problems.
Encourage The Person To See A Mental Health Counselor
It helps to understand that eating disorders are not just about weight and food. Throwing up is an attempt at dealing with stress and emotional issues. It is not easy for someone with bulimia to just stop throwing up and overeating. You cannot force your loved one to stop this behavior, but you can encourage him or her to seek mental health treatment.
A mental health counselor administers different types of therapy. People with bulimia have the opportunity to participate in individual therapy and group counseling. The goal is to change the way the person thinks and behave.
Bulimia is a dangerous disorder that requires immediate attention. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any other mental condition. Many cases of bulimia are successfully treated with the help of therapy. It also helps to seek counseling as soon as possible for the best results.
Get Help From A Nutritionist
People with bulimia have a negative perception about food. It helps to bring in a nutritionist to change this perception. If your child is concerned about losing weight, then a nutritionist can show him or her the healthy way to meet weight loss goals. A nutritionist can also help with menu planning.
Bulimia is a very complex condition. It can cause some people to obsess over working out, take laxatives, purge by throwing up or to constantly fast. When left untreated, bulimia can result in tooth decay, heart palpitations and esophageal damage. It is going to take teamwork from a variety of specialists and loved ones to help your child overcome such a serious condition.
For more information, contact Lincoln Psychiatric Group or a similar organization.
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