In our society, we have a variety of eating disorders, all of which are unique and tragic in their own way. Despite their differences, they all have several common symptoms that are key to their classification and severity. “It is estimated that 6% of teenage girls and 5% of college-aged women suffer from bulimia” (Source D). Bulimia nervosa is a potentially life threatening disorder marked by specific causes, symptoms, and treatments. “Bulimia nervosa is more common than anorexia nervosa and likely occurs in up to three percent of the population” (Source K). Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by cycles of consuming large amounts of food, otherwise known as binge eating, followed by any unhealthy compensatory behavior in order to avoid weight gain. Self-induced vomiting is the behavior most often associated with bulimia nervosa, however, there are several other behaviors used such as abuse of laxatives and/or diuretics, fasting, and excessive exercise. (Source H). Researchers and scientists have agreed there is no single cause of bulimia nervosa. Low self-esteem and concerns regarding body image and weight play major …show more content…
“CBT that has been tailored to treat bulimia has shown to be effective in changing binding and purging behavior, and eating attitudes “ (Source H). There have also been evidence that suggests that some antidepressant medicines may be effective for treating patients with bulimia nervosa. Fluoxetine (Prozac) is the only antidepressant medication currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating bulimia nervosa. This antidepressant helps for bulimia, but also may help patients who suffer from depression and/or anxiety. Fluoxetine (Prozac) appears to help reduce the chance of relapse, reduce binge eating and purging behavior, and improving eating attitude and behavior. (Source