How to Talk to a Doctor About Bulimia

Bulimia nervosa, simply called bulimia by most people, stems from an individual's desire to fit into a certain image he desires, usually pertaining to areas of weight and overall looks. Bulimia is characterized by periods of binge eating followed by purging the body of the foods eaten. Contributing factors include pressure to be thin, metabolic and biochemical problems, personal and family pressures and a possible genetic predisposition. Taking time to talk with a doctor about bulimia is an important step in overcoming this eating disorder. A doctor can provide total care after the initial talk.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Transportation
• Willingness to get help
• Telephone

Talk to a Doctor About Bulimia

1. Call the doctor to set up an appointment and mention the reason for the appointment. Plan on taking approximately 30 minutes to talk with the doctor.

2. Prepare for the doctor appointment by writing down the reasons, thoughts, feelings and questions associated with eating and purging to make sure everything is covered properly during the appointment.

3. Write down any physical changes noticed in the past few months to share with the doctor.

4. Arrive a few minutes early for the appointment and collect your thoughts before you talk with the doctor.

5. Explain your experiences, thoughts, feelings and concerns with the doctor, holding nothing back, referring to your notes. The doctor needs full disclosure of your current needs to provide the best help possible.

6. Make sure the doctor listens carefully to everything said and fully understands your current concerns and needs. If the doctor doesn't seem to connect with your situation, consider getting help from a doctor with more experience in dealing with bulimia.

7. Listen carefully to everything the doctor says about bulimia, taking notes of important information.

8. Follow all of the recommendations and treatment plans provided by the doctor as closely as possible.

9. Read through any brochures or informational packets provided by the doctor shortly after the appointment.

10. Keep a diary of eating habits, feelings, desires and other aspects of the fight against bulimia to share accurate information with the doctor (or therapist) at the next appointment.

Tips & Warnings

• It is important to talk to a doctor to find the best treatment options, which can include medication, nutritional help and counseling.
• Take a friend to see the doctor if the friend knows the current situation and can provide helpful support. Don't try to tackle bulimia on your own.
• Failure to fully confide in the doctor will not provide the best results in treatment possible. The doctor should keep the situation in confidence and should be trusted fully.

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