Bulimia, together with anorexia, is an eating disorder which is increasingly common in our society. People who suffer from bulimia have a tendency to over eat or binge, following by a period when they feel guilt and try to purge the food, either by vomiting, laxatives or excessive exercise or sometimes all three.
The information below is to help if you or someone close to you might be suffering from this eating disorder. Remember that your doctor should be your first port of call, and that specialist services are available through the NHS in some parts of Wales. There are also counsellors specialising in this condition and self-help groups available.ŵ
Beat is the new name for the Eating Disorders Association (EDA), which provides information, help and support across the UK for people whose lives are affected by eating disorders. They also have some self-help groups/individual helpers in Wales in Bangor, Swansea, Cardiff and Cardigan. The have a lot of information about where to get help, from local NHS services to specialist counselling. There's also a text service 07786 201 820 and regular online chats. For more details about what they can offer you generally, go to the website.
The National Centre for Eating Disorders is an independent organisation set up to provide solutions for all eating problems. They offer counselling, training and information, mainly based in England. The website has a self help course and more information about the disorders and how to treat them.
Anorexia and Bulimia Care offer support for those who are suffering from eating disorders, their families and friends. Helpline and online help available.
First Steps to Freedom are a confidential helpline for people suffering from general anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, anorexia and bulimia, and their carers. They offer counselling, listening, advice, support and information.
The Royal College of Psychiatry website has detailed, up-to-date information available about all types of depression and other mental illness, including symptoms and the best treatment options available.
For a support service based in Wales prepared to listen to any concerns about depression or other mental health issues, you can phone C.A.L.L. or go to their website for more information about how they can help. You can also access support and information via text from your mobile phone: simply text the word HELP and a description of your problem to 81066 e.g. 'HELP where is the closest eating disorder service to Conway'. The only cost is that of the initial text to your service provider.
YoungMinds is a helpline providing information and advice to anyone with concerns about the mental health or emotional well-being of a child or young person, which can be affected severely by bullying. They give information about a range of mental health issues and details of local and national advice services.
Extensive, good quality health information usually provided by GPs and nurses during consultation.
© 2012 S4C
O Gymru / Made in Wales