Bulimia nervosa, not unlike anorexia nervosa, is a psychiatric disorder that revolves around food. Those with bulimia consume tremendous amounts of food, often thousands of calories, in a short period of time, then purge it from their bodies. Self-induced vomiting is the standard method of purging, though laxative abuse is also extremely common.
These behaviors are incredibly hard on the human body. A person with this disorder may binge, and subsequently purge, between 20 and 30 times a day. The truth is, the body was not designed to take in such a huge volume of food at one time. The medical complications of bulimia include extreme injury to the esophagus, stomach, teeth and intestines as well as damage to the kidneys and heart.
The emotional impact of prolonged bulimia is also severe. Unlike an individual with anorexia who is often proud of her strength and appearance, a girl or woman with bulimia suffers a tremendous amount of shame and guilt over her behavior. Even she knows that the act of consuming thousands upon thousands of calories, then purging, doesn’t make sense. This guilt is intensified by the cost involved with aquiring so much food. It is not unusual for the person to begin stealing the necessary food.
Professional care is usually required to break the highly addictive binge/purge cycle. Bulimia treatment typically begins with outpatient therapy from a counselor experienced in treating eating disorders. Although this can be effective, it is not unusual for patients to require a higher level of care, where their behavior can be monitored.
Getting Results with Bulimia Treatment
The cornerstone of all Remuda Ranch treatment is complete focus on the individual. That’s why treatment duration is highly flexible and based on each patient’s unique needs. Some stay for 30 days, while those with more severe symptoms may remain in treatment for 45-60 days.
Each patient has an individualized treatment plan implemented by a team of professionals. These include a psychiatric and primary care provider, a registered dietitian, a licensed master's or doctoral-level therapist, a psychologist, and registered nurses. Along with treating the patient’s bulimia, the team also treats co-occurring issues such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse or trauma. In addition to individual and group therapy, patients engage in experiential treatments such as art, body image, equine and challenge course therapies.
Family Week at Remuda Ranch
A disorder such as bulimia is often very difficult for family members to understand. Therefore, a key and critical component of treatment is family involvement. Remuda Ranch wants family members to experience healing through growth and change. This is accomplished not only through therapeutic phone calls, but during an intensive Family Week.
We Are Here to Help
Recovery from an eating disorder is possible. It's happening every day at Remuda Ranch. For additional information about the treatment of eating disorders and OCD, please call 1-800-445-1900 or complete a Take the Next Step form and we will contact you with the information you need.
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