Bulimia nervosa, commonly known as bulimia, is a serious psychological life-threatening disorder related to unhealthy eating habits. Usually, this condition is described as losing control over eating and consuming an unusually large amount of food within a very short time period. This is followed by extreme ways being used to purge and avoid the after-effects of overconsumption. People with bulimia usually cannot control their urge to binge-eating. There are certain factors, both societal and psychological, that can aid in developing the causes of bulimia nervosa. Read on to know more.
Various studies on bulimia nervosa have shown that a higher number of cases have been reported in women than men; an estimate of almost 4.7 million women and around 1.5 million men suffer from this condition. Studies have also shown that this condition is not only prevalent among adolescents but also among older adults.
Causes of bulimia nervosa
The precise cause behind this severe disorder is yet to be determined. However, various aspects like genetics, socio-cultural factors, environmental factors, and psychological factors contribute to triggering this condition.
- If someone is going through a life-changing or stressful transition.
- If a person has any history of trauma and sexual, physical, or mental abuse.
- Having low self-esteem, being a prey to body shaming, excessive self-judgment, and so on can also trigger this condition. In today’s social media-dominated world, maintaining an impressive body image to get social acceptance can also be one of the potential causes of bulimia nervosa.
- Those who are into such activities or professions where physical appearance matters the most can easily become prey to this deadly disorder.
- If there is a family history of bulimia nervosa, people are at a higher risk of developing the same.
- Depression can also be a possible trigger of this condition.
People who suffer from bulimia tend to purge to avoid the after-effects of overconsumption by engaging in abuse of diuretics, enemas, or laxatives; they may also induce vomit to get rid of the food.
People affected by the non-purging type of bulimia go through fasting or excessive exercising to avoid weight gain after binge eating.
Even though the precise way to prevent bulimia is still unknown, people diagnosed with the condition can be treated and counseled to grow healthier eating habits. Getting expert advice and professional treatment on time can help diminish the chances of the condition worsening over time. Proper care and attention can definitely fight this disorder and help patients get back to a normal lifestyle where they can eat normally and stay healthy.
Once this condition is diagnosed, it is imperative to get proper and timely treatment. This condition can be triggered by certain psychological and societal factors but can be effectively controlled. A person suffering from bulimia nervosa should visit a counselor for the same as this will help them overcome the issue in a positive and healthy way.
