As in anorexia nervosa, the behaviors associated with bulimia provide temporary relief from tension and allow ill persons to focus less on problems perceived as unresolvable and to instead focus on body weight and food. Most people with bulimia can be treated as outpatients because they aren't in danger of starving themselves as persons with anorexia are. However, if the bulimia is out of control, a stay in an eating disorders treatment program may help them let go of their behaviors so they can concentrate on treatment. Group therapy is especially effective for college-aged and young adult women because of the understanding of the group members. In group therapy they can talk with peers who have similar experiences.
Group therapy seems to be most effective for college-aged patients.
Support groups, on the other hand, can be attended for as long as necessary, have flexible schedules, and generally have no charge. Sometimes a person with an eating disorder is unable to benefit from group therapy or support groups without the encouragement of a personal therapist. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been shown to benefit many persons with bulimia. It focuses on self-monitoring of eating and purging behaviors as well as changing the distorted thinking patterns associated with the disorder. Treatment plans should be adjusted to meet the needs of the individual concerned, but usually a comprehensive treatment plan involving a variety of experts and approaches is best.