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Is Bulimia something that only girls get, or do boys get it too?

answered 04:05 PM EST, Mon July 30, 2012
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anonymous anonymous
Are there a lot of teenage guys who binge on food and then make themselves throw up? I am 17 and I do this 3 or 4 times a week. I am very ashamed of this and embarrassed because everyone thinks this is just something that girls do. I do not know why I need to do this all the time.

William Anderson Says...

Boys get Bulimia, the eating disorder where a person binges and purges, just like girls do, though the disorder is more prevalent in girls, probably because of the disproportionate pressure girls have to be thin. Ten girls have it for every boy that has it. 

It is something that almost anyone can get under certain circumstances, and once it has progressed to the degree you are describing, it is very difficult to stop, like an addiction. 

Realize that many other boys and men have been afflicted with Bulimia, some very macho guys in the sports and entertainment fields, so don't be embarrassed to talk to a professional about it. 

You must start working with a professional counselor who specializes in Eating Disorders in order to get this turned around right away, the sooner the better. It will not stay the same as it is now. It will either get better or get worse, and you have much better chances of it getting better sooner if you see an Eating Disorders therapist. Working with a pro will also make sure you get it treated so it goes away permanently.

Search for a psychotherapist that specializes in eating disorders and call to make an appointment to talk about it. Write back if you need more help.

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Page last updated Jul 30, 2012

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