Anorexia and Bulimia: An Overview
Anorexia and bulimia are two
types of eating disorders. Eating disorders are complex, long-term illnesses largely misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Anorexia and bulimia are on the rise -- both in the United States and worldwide.
No one knows exactly what causes anorexia and bulimia. However, all socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural groups are at risk.
Research shows that more than 90 percent of those who have anorexia and bulimia are women between the ages of 12 and 25. However, increasing numbers of older women and men have anorexia and bulimia. In addition, hundreds of thousands of boys are affected by anorexia and bulimia.
Anorexia and bulimia often are long-term illnesses that may require long-term treatment. In addition, anorexia and bulimia frequently occur with other mental disorders, such as
depression, substance abuse, and
anxiety disorders. The earlier anorexia or bulimia is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances are for full recovery.