Mr. Eric Edward Stern, LPC, MSCP

Some people with bulimia may have swollen parotid glands (salivary glands near the cheeks) that give their face a puffy "chipmunk" appearance. Their skin may look dehydrated and dull from repeated purging. Red scars and marks on the backs of the knuckles are prevalent in those with bulimia. Eating disorder experts may refer to these as "Russel's sign," named after a well-known psychologist.

However, others with bulimia may not show any outward signs of having an eating disorder. They may deliberately hide their eating habits or conceal their purging after a meal. It is important that family members and friends help loved ones with bulimia seek treatment. While many people with bulimia are still able to lead outwardly successful and active lifestyles, bulimia may have lasting and severe consequences to one's health. Electrolyte imbalance from bulimia is particularly dangerous and may lead to heart attack or stroke. Similarly, continued dehydration and disturbances in electrolyte levels can cause kidney damage and reduced kidney function.

Treatment for bulimia typically includes therapy and nutrition counseling. Eating disorder support groups, both online and in person, are often beneficial to recovery. Medical professionals may also look to treat the mental health problems that frequently accompany bulimia, which are body dysmorphia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. Dietary specialists can assist patients with reintegrating foods into their diet and increasing consumed calories. Some patients may attend inpatient rehabilitation or eating disorder clinics, which provide all of the above treatments in a residential facility.

Fortunately, many people recover from bulimia and are able to fully restore their health.

Dialectical behavior therapy was developed when therapists attempting to use CBT techniques on the most seriously ill patients ran into a problem. When they suggested that a patient change their thoughts, these very vulnerable patients would become overwhelmed and turn aggressive or suicidal. DBT was developed to support these patients with acceptance and validation while still guiding them towards changing problematic thoughts. Although also used for suicidal and self-harming patients today, these days, DBT is mainly used to treat borderline personality disorder. It is one of the few effective interventions for this serious illness.

DBT has been shown to be very effective at reducing self-destructive behavior. It can also be used to teach new coping skills and increase a patient's self-esteem and motivation to become healthier.

Mental health issues are typically diagnosed by a provider like a psychiatrist or a psychologist. These issues are diagnosed through psychological evaluation and talk therapy.

Mental health therapy can be an effective tool in supporting people who are struggling with unwanted feelings, behaviors, or difficult circumstances in their lives. Many forms of therapy are available, including specialized therapies tailored to particular disorders. For many issues, therapists help patients manage their conditions through talk therapy. Other treatments can include medication or stays at a psychiatric facility. Mental health therapy can help people with mental health issues improve their mental and emotional wellbeing.