How to Find Help for Someone With Bulimia

If you suspect someone you love is bulimic, help her get the care she needs by following these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Yellow Pages
• Telephones
• Therapists

1. Look up your local Overeaters Anonymous chapter. This organization takes participants through the same 12-step program used in groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
2. Look up "Eating Disorders ' Information and Treatment Centers" in the phone book. Call the centers and ask for advice.
3. Ask your doctor for advice or for information about local eating disorder support groups in your area. Also, ask her if she knows of an eating disorder specialist in your area.
4. Call your local hospital and ask if it has eating disorder programs available. Many hospitals have inpatient treatments or can refer you to an eating disorder program in your area.
5. Know that the person with bulimia may need both medical and psychological assistance. Look for both forms of specialists if necessary.
6. Make sure that the psychologist has prior experience with eating disordered clients. Consider interviewing the therapist before referring the person who you believe suffers from bulimia. The therapist should be someone you respect and admire.
7. Make sure that the family gets any needed help and support. Often, family issues are at the root of an eating disorder, and understanding past and current family dynamics is essential to recovery.
8. Bookmark Web sites about eating disorders, such as the Eating Disorder Resources site (eatingdisorderresources.com).

Tips & Warnings

• A good therapist has good credentials. Look for appropriate degrees and make sure that the therapist has met appropriate regulations for the field.
• See "Identify Bulimia," under Related eHows, if you're not sure what symptoms to look for.
• If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.