Expert: Joanne - 8/27/2007

Question
Hello  Holly. I'm not really sure of the results of what this will do but I was just wondering if you or anyone else has any suggestions. My girlfriend has bulimia and for awhile I've been trying to help her with methods such as distracting her and making her focus on something completely or attempting to compliment and ease her mind from the usual negative thoughts she gives herself. She was doing great and didn't throw up for about 4-5 weeks straight. But recently this week she's been throwing up again and having the urges. I'm very worried and I'm confused why the temptations turn on and off. She is about 150 pounds, but in all honestly i believe she is beautiful and it saddens me that she started this because her last boyfriend wasn't supportive, wasn't giving her the amount of attention, and wasn't giving the compliments and the comfort she deserves. She's been through a few therapists and doctors but they didn't do much, just kind of gave her medications. Last, she started less than a year ago..Other than that I don't really know what else to say or to do..But any suggestions or feed back would be appreciated. Thanks.

Answer
Unfortunately, you can't do anything other than be supportive!

She really needs professional help to help her resolve the issues that have lead her to bulimia in the first place, and I recommend that she looks for one that doesn't give out medication in the first instance!

I would like you to visit www.something-fishy.org and look at some of the articles there, and maybe even join the message boards allowing you to talk to other people that have found theirselves in your situation.  There are other message boards there that your girlfriend can use as a sufferer, but there is no overlap - you can only sign up to one or the other - so you can speak to people about your experience without her being able to see (providing you don't share your password with her), and vice versa - allowing you to be completely honest!

Hope you find this of some use!  If you have any other questions, or your girlfriend has some, please feel free to get back in touch!

All the best
Holly