ecause the psychological reasons for eating disorders can be so ingrained, many people who have had anorexia and bulimia have relapses and need further help throughout their lives. Others may want to head off the problem before it gets too much.

A range of treatments is available for each disorder, including group therapy, psychotherapy and counselling, nutritional counselling, assertion training, family therapy, and hospitalisation only in very severe cases.

People may take time to find the right therapist. One ex-bulimic encourages those who need help not to be discouraged if the first doctor or psychiatrist doesn’t understand the problem or is contemptuous of it. It is very important that you contact an anorexia and bulimia support group so you can talk to people who really understand and will not judge you.

Many people have been cured of their eating disorders; others have their eating disorders as background to their lives, but manageable. Many are particularly helped by making the decision to go to therapy – not as a failure but as a positive step to helping themselves and becoming well, a new challenge.

Don’t go to a therapist who offers you quick cures or a better cure for more money or those who talk only of willpower or do not see the problem as serious. Therapists can have their own problems and biases.

The best place to start is your local doctor. Ask for a full examination and if necessary, referral to an eating disorders clinic. Your local doctor may not be experienced in treating eating disorders but can refer you for help or get instructions on how to help you. Nutritionists at eating disorders clinics and women’s health centres can also help you. Women’s health centres will be able to refer you to a body image group or eating disorders group.

The Anorexia and Bulimia groups can send you information, give advice over the phone and refer you for further help. You may be surprised to find so many people who share your experiences.

Several private psychiatrists are working in the field of eating disorders. Some of them have personal theories about the causes of anorexia or bulimia that they explore during sessions. While some of these therapists may be very helpful for some women, they are generally not able to help with nutritional advice and programs.

As the causes of the disorders are multi-dimensional, so may be the treatments.

People with eating disorders can feel alone in the wilderness. Actually the wilderness is pretty crowded these days. You can learn to read the signs – especially the ones that say “Wrong way: go back!”

You can find out where you can get practical help and treatment on our links page.