What are some common characteristics of persons with bulimia?
Most people with eating disorders share certain personality traits and use abnormal eating rituals as a means of handling stress and anxiety. These personality traits often include, but are not limited to, the following: • low self-esteem • feelings of helplessness • fear of becoming fat People with bulimia (and binge eating disorder) typically consume huge amounts of food – often junk food – to reduce stress and relieve anxiety. • With binge eating, however, comes guilt and depression. • Purging brings relief that is only temporary. • Individuals with bulimia are usually impulsive and more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as abuse of alcohol and drugs.
