Bulimia Nervosa (Causes)

Bulimia is more than just a problem with food. A binge can be triggered by dieting, stress, or uncomfortable emotions such as anger or sadness. Purging and other actions to prevent weight gain are ways for people with bulimia to feel more in control of their lives and ease stress and anxiety. There is no single known cause of bulimia, but there are some factors that may play a part.

• Culture. Women in the U.S. are under constant pressure to fit a certain ideal of beauty. Images everywhere of flawless, thin females make it hard for women to feel good about their bodies. Increasingly, men are also feeling pressure to have a perfect body.
• Families. If you have a mother or sister with bulimia, you are more likely to have bulimia. Parents who think looks are important, diet themselves, or criticize their children's bodies are more likely to have a child with bulimia.
• Life changes or stressful events. Traumatic events such as rape, as well as stressors such as starting a new job, can trigger bulimia.
• Personality traits. Someone with bulimia may have low self-esteem and feel hopeless. She or he may be very moody and have difficulty expressing anger or controlling impulsive behaviors.
• Biology. Genes, hormones, and brain chemicals may contribute to developing bulimia.