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Definitions

Anorexia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa
Compulsive Eating

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by a significant weight loss as a result of dieting. Anorexics usually consider themselves fat (some do see that they are thin), no matter what their actual weight is. In their attempts to become thinner, the anorexic will avoid food and taking in calories at all costs, which can result in death.

Anorexics are usually perfectionists and set very high standards for themselves. They usually always put the needs of others ahead of their own. Anorexics may believe the only control they have in their lives in the areas of food and weight. The number on the scale usually determines whether or not they are succeeding or failing. Focusing on calories and losing weight can also be their way of numbing themselves or blocking out feelings and emotions. Anorexics usually have low self-esteem and feel they do not deserve to eat. Most anorexics will deny they have a problem and resist therapy. Once the anorexic can admit they have an eating disorders and are willing to seek help, they can be treated effectively through a combination of psychological, medical and nutritional care.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is characterized by a cycle of binge eating followed by purging. For one person a binge may range anywhere from 1000 to 10000 calories, for another, one cookie may be considered a binge. Purging methods can take the form of vomiting, laxative or diuretic use, excessive exercising, fasting and enemas.

Bulimics usually have low self-esteem and feel very insecure. They usually strive to please others, while ignoring their own personal needs and feelings. Food becomes their only source of comfort. Bulimics can also use their eating disorder to block out feelings (bingeing) or to release feelings (purging). Since the relief is only temporary, the cycle will continue. Unlike anorexics, bulimics do realize they have a problem and are more likely to seek help.

Compulsive Eating

Compulsive eating is characterized by uncontrollable eating resulting in weight gain. Compulsive eaters usually use food as a way to cope with stress, emotional conflicts, and other problems. Food can help them block out their feelings and emotions. Compulsive eaters usually feel out of control and are aware they have a problem. Unlike anorexia and bulimia, there is a high proportion of male compulsive eaters.

Most compulsive eaters try many diets which is usually what leads to the next binge and ultimately weight gain. Many experience feelings of powerlessness, guilt, shame and failure. The cycle of dieting and bingeing will continue, until the emotional reasons are dealt with.

Unfortunately, compulsive eating is not yet taken seriously enough. Many are directed to diet centers and health spas, instead of being give the proper treatment which should include psychological, medical and nutritional counseling. Like anorexia and bulimia, compulsive eating is a serious eating disorder which can result in death.

Eating Disorders Recovery Group
Our meetings are held every Monday Night at 7:00 P.M. at

336 Pine Street
(Pinegate Addiction Services community room)
SUDBURY, Ontario
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