Our therapists offer eating disorder therapy in Alexandria, VA

Counseling for Anorexia, Bulimia in Alexandria, VA (Franconia)—Counseling and Therapy

There are many types of eating disorders, but bulimia and anorexia are two of the most common. Although they share many signs and symptoms, they are two distinct diagnoses.

Anorexia nervosa’s common name is simply anorexia, and according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), following characterize anorexia:

• Inability to see the low body weight; disdain for one’s body shape or weight.
• Intense and illogical fear of gaining weight that leads to interference with healthy weight maintenance and gain.
• Intentionally food intake that results in a substantially lower body weight in relation to physical health, sex, developmental trajectory, and age.

Bulimia nervosa’s common name is simply bulimia, and according to the DSM-5, the following characterize bulimia:

• A self-perception that is consumed by body weight and shape.
• Repeating incidents of binge eating, including,
  • Eating, in a certain time period, food that is clearly more than most people could eat during the same time period and under similar circumstances.
  • Losing control over eating during the binge.
• Repeated, inappropriate, compensatory behaviors that attempt to prevent weight gain, such as misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications; self-induced vomiting; fasting; or excessive exercise.

Often, psychological challenges accompany bulimia and anorexia, for example, PTSD, depression, or anxiety. Both men and women can develop an eating disorder, and while they can surface at any point in a person’s life, they usually begin during the teen years or early adulthood.

What Causes Anorexia and Bulimia?

When a person develops an eating disorder, the cause can be unique and personal, but in general, healthcare professionals put causes into two categories: environment and biology.

Environmental causes often include childhood abuse, family trauma, peer pressure to be a certain body type, or living with unrealistic ideas of beauty.

Biological causes often include nutritional deficiencies, irregular hormone functions, and genetics.

Therapy for Anorexia and Bulimia at Thriveworks Alexandria, VA (Franconia)

While reading about anorexia and bulimia, did you recognize any of the signs, symptoms, or causes in your own life? If you or someone you know exhibits these behaviors and attitudes about their weight, it may be time to reach out for help. Thriveworks Alexandria offers therapy for anorexia and bulimia, and we are ready to tailor a treatment plan that will fit your needs.

Acknowledging a problem and seeking help takes courage, and we want to provide support, even the first time you call our office. When you dial Thriveworks Alexandria, a person will answer and help schedule an appointment that is convenient for you. We offer night and weekend appointments, and many first-time clients are able to see their therapist within a week of their first call.

Let’s work together for better health. Call Thriveworks Alexandria today.