Thursday, October 8, 2009

Cope With Bulimia

Cope With Bulimia


Learning to cope with bulimia is an ongoing process. Because eating disorders may take years to overcome, it's important that people suffering from them learn to cope by finding ways to get help as soon as possible. The sooner bulimia is tackled, the easier it is to overcome it. Because bulimia usually starts at an early age, it's important to pay attention to sign of the disease in teenagers and young adults.








Instructions


1. Look for professional help. A therapist can help you understand the causes behind the problem and give you tools to deal with the underlying issue. Choose a therapist who specializes in eating disorders or at least one who has previous experience with the issue.


2. Join a support group. Both online and face-to-face support groups are a great resource, as they put you in touch with other people dealing with the same issues. If you are not in therapy, a support group is the next best thing. Even if you are already under the care of a professional, a support group can still help you.


3. Consult with a nutritionist. Although bulimia is usually related to self-esteem issues rather than weight, working with somebody to help you manage your weight can still have an effect on how the disease progresses. If you experience episodes of binge eating and extreme dieting, learning eat properly can help you understand food issues and deal with them.


4. Take it one day at a time. Bulimia can take years to overcome, and experts agree that recurrence is common. Focus on doing the best you can at the present time, as it can be overwhelming to think about long-term treatment and results. A support group is essential for helping you deal with everyday fears and insecurities.


5. Talk to a doctor about medications that can help you deal with bulimia. Antidepressants are commonly prescribed to people with bulimia to help treat underlying issues that may be causing the problem. Other drugs, such as Phenytoin (an anticonvulsant drug), can help control overeating and vomiting episodes.

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