Bulimia is an eating disorder and serious mental health condition. A person who is experiencing bulimia is driven by an intense fear of putting on weight, and can become trapped in a cycle of restricting eating, binge eating and purging (e.g. making themselves vomit, misusing laxatives, over-exercising, etc.)
This cycle can interfere with life and be very difficult to break and the person can start to feel less and less in control.Â
Although bulimia might seem to be caused by preoccupations with food and weight, it can also be driven by things like low confidence and poor self-esteem or a need to feel in control in your life if you are going through a very stressful or tough time.Â
Because many people with bulimia maintain a normal body weight, the disorder can go untreated unless a person seeks help.Â
Bulimia is not harmless and can cause numerous physical and mental health issues. If you are experiencing bulimia, it’s important to seek help as soon as you can.
More information and support
Bodywhys provides support and information for people experiencing bulimia and other eating disorders.Â
Website: bodywhys.ie
If you’re thinking about suicide or self-harm or if you need help right away, call 999 or 112
There are also specific support lines that you can call:
Samaritans Ireland – 116 123
Pieta House – 1800 247 247
Childline can also be contacted by any child or young person by calling 1800 66 66 66, texting to 50101 or chatting online at Childline.ie 24 hours a day, every day.
