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How to Approach Your Roommate Who is Struggling with Bulimia
Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope
Eating disorders are not always an easy topic to discuss, particularly because of the many stigmas and shame that surround these mental health illnesses. However, if you are living with an individual who is struggling with an eating disorder, such as bulimia nervosa, you may find yourself needing to have a conversation that addresses any concerns you might have.
You may have picked up on unusual signs or habits that have caused you to question your roommate or wonder if they are indeed struggling with something more severe.
Educating Yourself About Bulimia
Bulimia nervosa is a psychiatric illness that is characterized by reoccurring episodes of binging on abnormally large amounts of food in a relatively short period of time, followed by purging. Purging behaviors are usually intended to compensate for the binge and can include self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse, excessive exercise or a combination of these things.
Binging and purging is typically done in secret, so some of the more obvious signs might not be as apparent to you. However, you may pick up on some of the following signs of bulimia:
- Disappearance of large amounts of food
- Purchasing large quantities of food, stockpiling or hoarding food
- Frequently smelling the odor of vomit, particularly around the bathrooms
- Seeing your roommate frequently excuse himself/herself after meals
- Consuming food rapidly
- Poor or worsening hygiene habits
- Avoiding social functions that have food
- Engaging in excessive exercise routines, compulsive exercise
Finding Your Voice of Concern
If you are concerned that your roommate may be struggling with bulimia, it is important to approach them gently about your concerns. Because eating disorders are often kept in secret, your voice of concern can help be an intervention or may lead your roommate to get the appropriate help they need.
The key is to find a place and time that is appropriate to discuss your concerns as well as an environment that you both feel safe in. Remember that your roommate has likely been hiding this struggle for sometime and may feel taken-back or defensive in your approach.
Approaching them lovingly and gently can help ease the shame or guilt they may feel. Be ready with some resources that you can share with your roommate that may help guide them to the professional help and support they need to overcome bulimia.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What suggestions might you share with someone who has a roommate with bulimia?
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on June 11th, 2015
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
