Bulimia is a complex disorder that is influenced by a number of factors, including biological, emotional and societal factors. Understanding the various causes of bulimia can help those who struggle with the disorder seek effective treatment. In most cases, treatment that addresses all of these factors to some degree is optimal. For best results, discuss treatment options with a qualified therapist who specializes in eating disorders.
Societal Factors
American culture celebrates thinness and places emphasis on particular types of physical beauty. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, women in America are under constant pressure to fit into these body and appearance ideals. When a person compares themselves continually to these images, their risk of feeling physically inadequate runs high.
If you have or are at risk for bulimia, surround yourself with positive images, such as art that demonstrates beauty in all shapes and sizes and avoid television programs, movies and magazines that place value on people's appearances or body weight more so than skills, personality and other attributes. Discuss your feelings regarding your body and societal ideals with a trusted therapist for best results.
Biological Factors
Biology can play a role in bulimia. Eating disorders, including bulimia, tend to run in families. Though it is not always the case, if your siblings or parents have an eating disorder, you are at heightened risk. According to the Mayo Clinic, there may be genes that determine which individuals are most at risk for eating disorders. Research is still being conducted, and since behaviors modeled by family members are also influential in other family members' self image and value system, it is difficult to determine which is more powerful--behavioral or genetic factors.
Another biological factor involves brain chemistry. If you lack serotonin, a chemical required for maintaining positive feelings and emotional well being, you may consequently develop an illness such as bulimia. In these cases, dietary or lifestyle changes as well as medications may prove helpful.
Emotional Factors
Individuals with bulimia struggle with emotional issues, such as depression and poor self esteem. Abuse and trauma are also risk factors for developing the disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, people with eating disorders may struggle with perfectionism, impulsive behavior, anger management difficulties and troubled relationships. As bulimia worsens, emotional difficulties tend to worsen as well. In addition, bulimic behaviors often serve as unhealthy coping mechanisms that sufferers turn to rather than dealing with difficult feelings in other ways.
If depression or an alternate emotional disorder contributed to your acquiring bulimia, the emotional disorder will likely need to be addressed before long-term, effective healing is met. Since many bulimic behaviors hold harmful side effects, behaviors must be changed as well. Keep in mind that though bulimia is a complex disorder, recovery is possible and an incredibly worthy pursuit.
