Bulimia is a severe eating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Over time, this disorder can lead to even more severe health problems that can threaten your longevity and quality of life. If you or a loved one has bulimia and addiction, you should seriously consider getting help from a bulimia treatment center and dual diagnosis treatment center in Portland, Maine.

Ha woman smiling on the street as she has found a bulimia treatment centerow Does Bulimia Develop?

Generally, people are not born with the condition. Bulimia is an eating disorder that develops. It’s important to know that people of any age may experience bulimia. It’s not an eating disorder that is specific to any particular age group or gender. It’s also important to note that the condition may develop slowly over a long period. In some cases, bulimia may come on much more suddenly.

Learn More About Bulimia and Treatment Centers

Bulimia is sometimes referred to as bulimia nervosa because it is considered to be a psychological condition that stems from the nervous system. At a bulimia treatment center, the focus will be on your mental state of mind for treatment purposes. However, there are severe physical ramifications that come from the disorder. These physical symptoms will also be cared for at the treatment center to ensure the person is as healthy as possible.

Part of your treatment will be learning more about this eating disorder that has you in its grips. Education is key to unlocking the reasons why you may be suffering from this eating disorder. When you learn more about bulimia, you can learn more about why your situation may have led to this condition.

Causes of Bulimia

Bulimia is an eating disorder that can be caused by a variety of reasons. During your stay at a bulimia treatment center, you’ll have an opportunity to work with a professional to discover the reasoning behind developing the condition. In general, though, here are some reasons why people have developed bulimia:

  • Emotional abuse or trauma
  • Physical abuse or trauma
  • Low self-esteem
  • Chronic bullying
  • Personal discord about lifestyle
  • Physical abnormality

Symptoms of Bulimia

Persons with bulimia typically exhibit many of the same symptoms. Note that your symptoms may vary. Having more or less of the symptoms mentioned here does not necessarily mean that you do or do not have bulimia. Only a professional can accurately diagnose the condition. Here are some common symptoms that people with bulimia present with:

  • Gorging at mealtimes
  • Starving themselves at meals when others are present
  • Stockpiling food
  • Gorging in private
  • Immediately excusing themselves to the bathroom after eating
  • Preoccupation with weight
  • Continually looking at themselves in the mirror
  • Constantly comparing your body with others
  • Abusing weight loss medication such as diuretics
  • Counting calories obsessively

If you or a loved one exhibits one or more of these symptoms, it’s worth it to consult with a bulimia treatment center to find out if further investigation is necessary.

What to Expect From a Bulimia Treatment Center

When you enter a bulimia treatment center, you can expect to be treated with respect and sensitivity. The professionals at the Crossroads Treatment Center understand just how difficult it was for you even to admit that you need help. For years, Crossroads Treatment Center has been helping people just like you to understand this devastating eating disorder better. Through understanding, it’s possible to find the light at the end of the tunnel finally. You’ll be surrounded by caring individuals who know just how to take care of you so that you have the best chances for a successful outcome. Don’t try to go it alone. Contact us today by calling 877.978.1667 for a consultation and more information.