Find a Mental Health Professional for Bulimia Nervosa & Binge Eating

About Bulimia Nervosa & Binge Eating support

Bulimia nervosa involves a cycle of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours such as purging, excessive exercise, or fasting. Binge Eating Disorder (BED) involves recurring episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short period, often in secret and with a feeling of loss of control, without regular compensatory behaviours. Both conditions are associated with significant shame, secrecy, and distress, and are far more common than most people realise, affecting people across all genders and body sizes. Psychological treatment is effective for both bulimia and binge eating. CBT-E is well researched and helps people understand the cycle maintaining the disorder, develop more flexible eating patterns, and address the underlying beliefs about food, weight, and self-worth. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is also used, particularly when emotional dysregulation is central. Nutritional support from a dietitian with eating disorder experience is an important adjunct. In Australia, the Butterfly Foundation national helpline (1800 33 4673) provides support and referral. Medicare's Eating Disorder Plan provides up to 40 subsidised sessions per year. Many practitioners offering CBT-E are available in private practice and eating disorder clinics, with telehealth options for those outside major cities. GPs play an important role in physical monitoring and coordinating the treatment team.