Diagnosing bulimia
If you have an eating disorder such as bulimia, the first step is to recognise that you have a problem and visit your GP.
This may be a very difficult step for you to take. Most people who have bulimia hide their situation for months or years before seeking help. It can often take a change of situation, such as the start of a new relationship or living with new people, to make a person with bulimia want to seek help.
Once you have explained your situation to your GP, they will decide whether to refer you for help from a specialist mental health team. Your local team will include specialist counsellors, psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, dietitians and other healthcare professionals.
The course of your treatment depends on how serious your condition is and the best way to manage it. Your GP may recommend a self-help programme to start your recovery before referring you for specialist treatment.
If you think you have bulimia
- Have the courage to admit to yourself that you have a problem. You may think it is not serious, but bulimia can damage your long-term health.
- Accepting that you need help and support is the first step to recovery.
- It may help to make a list of questions you want to ask before you see your GP.
- You can make a full recovery from bulimia. The earlier you start treatment, the quicker the recovery process will be.
