Bulimia Treatment Center

therapist talking to woman at the bulimia treatment centerThe exact cause for Bulimia is not known. We do know that it is an emotionally motivated eating disorder. Someone who suffers from the illness firmly believes that her body is ugly and fat. Generally, this is a skewed perception. Promises Behavioral Health has a bulimia treatment center in Nashville, TN you can reach out to. Many bulimia sufferers deal with depression, anxiety, or substance abuse, as well. When a person has more than one mental health issue, it is called a dual diagnosis. There are many dual diagnosis treatment centers located throughout the United States, so help is available.

Most people who deal with the disease are overtly thin and undernourished. This happens because the process of eating is binge and purge. No calories are allowed to remain as the individual uses all means to dispose of them. This could include using laxatives, enemas, weight loss pills, or diuretics. Self-induced vomiting is also used to purge food intake.

Signs of Bulimia Disorder

It is sometimes difficult to tell if a loved one is dealing with a bulimia problem. Parents of bulimics are often in denial, as this is a scary diagnosis. If left untreated, bulimia is a life-threatening eating disorder. The Mayo Clinic lists the following as symptoms of the illness:

  • Most often occurs in females during the teens or young adult years
  • Negative body image – sees themselves as overweight, even when they aren’t
  • Has periods of eating extreme amounts of food in one sitting, and then becoming very restrictive in food intake and calories
  • May not want to eat in front of other people
  • Exercises a ridiculous amount in spite of weather conditions or illness
  • Physical signs include – sores, scars or calluses on hands and knuckles; teeth and gums appear damaged; cold all the time; sleep problems; fainting or dizziness; dry skin and nails; muscle weakness; thinning hair; yellow skin; sporadic or no period; inability to heal or catches virus/colds easily; swelling in the cheeks or jaw area
  • Wears baggy clothes to hide the size of the body
  • Drinks water or no-calorie sodas in excess; uses gum, mouthwash, or mints

While this is not an exhaustive list, it is some of the more apparent signs. The National Eating Disorder Association states that bulimia can be recognized by any overly concerned, all-consuming dieting and controlling of food consumption, combined with purging.

What Should I Do?

If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, treatment is the best option. Self-healing is usually not effective as it is a deep-seated illness. Self-control has already been lost. Bulimia can affect many systems of the body leading to death. These include: cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, neurological, and kidney.

Help at the Bulimia Treatment Center

Only about 35% of people with bulimia go to a bulimia treatment center that specializes in eating disorders. This is most likely related to the fact that people with bulimia are secretive and embarrassed by the disease. A quality treatment center will help you with the following:

  • Rid you of shame and guilt over your disease
  • Help you recognize why you developed an eating disorder and learn coping skills to conquer these issues
  • Treat underlying issues such as depression, anxiety or fears
  • Teach healthy eating as well as how to combat purging impulses
  • Design a personal program just for you that will provide a life long ability to stay well

Promises Behavioral Health and the Bulimia Treatment Center

Promises Behavioral Health has a team of experienced, licensed eating disorder professionals. We offer a variety of programs and treat dual diagnosis situations. Our staff will help you to learn how to find a healthy balance for your mind and body. Our ranch, located just 45 minutes outside Nashville, is a tranquil setting where you can heal and be restored.

Contact Promises Behavioral Health if you or someone you love is dealing with bulimia or any eating disorder. Getting treatment is important to your health and well-being. Don’t continue to let bulimia control your life. Call 844.875.5609 today to discuss a stay at one of our facilities across the country.