What age group is most affected by bulimia?
Bulimia affects more girls and younger women than older women. On average, women develop bulimia at 18 or 19. Teen girls between 15 and 19 and young women in their early 20s are most at risk.
What is the success rate of treatment for people with bulimia nervosa?
One study found that over 80% of those who received treatment within the first few years of their illness recovered [2]. Conversely, the probability of recovery dropped below 20% for those that received treatment 15+ years after onset.
Is there a successful treatment for bulimia?
The only antidepressant specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat bulimia is fluoxetine (Prozac), a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which may help even if you’re not depressed.
Why do young girls become bulimic?
A teenager who has suffered emotional, physical, or sexual abuse may increase their susceptibility to bulimia. The presence of other mental health disorders can also heighten the risk of bulimia, including alcoholism and substance abuse.
Are people with bulimia malnourished?
However, this is not the case, and malnutrition can result irrespective of weight. An individual who struggles with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder may develop malnutrition as a result of erratic and irregular eating behaviors.
How long is recovery from bulimia?
Depending on several factors, it may take several months or even a few years to find recovery from bulimia. The repetitive and harmful behaviors associated with bulimia must be replaced with healthier coping mechanisms, which takes time and dedication to a new way of thinking and reacting to stressful situations.
What is the mortality rate of bulimia?
Results: Crude mortality rates were 4.0% for anorexia nervosa, 3.9% for bulimia nervosa, and 5.2% for eating disorder not otherwise specified.
Is bulimia an addiction?
Bulimia is a form of food addiction, so it’s not surprising that many people with this specific type of disordered eating also suffer from substance abuse addiction.
How do I help my daughter with bulimia?
How can I help my child?
- Listen. Listen to the words your child uses. He or she may express shame, depression or fear.
- Observe. Their eye contact may waver when they discuss eating. They may look defeated, hopeless or that their life is out of control.
- Talk. If you suspect there may be a problem, talk to your child.
How can I tell if my daughter is purging?
Behavioral signs of bulimia
- Preoccupation with food and weight.
- Distorted body image.
- Long periods of time spent in the bathroom—sometimes with the faucet running, to mask the sound of vomiting.
- Depression.
- Anxious about eating, especially dining out in public.
- Abuse of laxatives, enemas, emetics, diuretics.
