Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder that involves binge eating and then purging — throwing up or misusing laxatives or diuretics — to avoid gaining weight. And although it’s actually more common in teenagers than anorexia, it’s much less visible. Kids with the disorder are often not underweight, and they eat a healthy amount at mealtimes. Ashamed of bingeing and purging, they often keep this behavior hidden from their parents. So fewer kids are treated, even though it’s just as life threatening as anorexia.

This week we take a close look at bulimia and why family-based treatment is usually the best option for treatment. We also round up other resources for supporting children who struggle with eating issues, from young kids who are picky eaters to college students who develop eating disorders in their stressful first year away from home.

– Caroline Miller, Editorial Director | ✉