Can we just chose to stop?

Why can I just NOT do it.............why? Is it really a disorder? Maybe I should just accept it and embrace it.

sort of...not really. it starts with a determination to make a choice to stop, and then learning and developing skills that will help you reduce/eliminate the behaviors. it's so hard.

I have heard people say they stopped cold turkey and stuff but if that worked for all of us then we wouldn't need treatment centers and psychotherapists etc so keep in mind that everyone is different and you go at your pace.

I understand your frustration but I'm gonna ask you your question right back atcha cuz you're the only one who can answer - why do YOU think you can't stop?

I second Spydermonkey!

You CAN just do it. Telling youself you can't is (in a way) giving yourself permission to continue.

If you truly cannot bring yourself to stop, or you try and fail, I would question myself on what it is that bulimia gives you cannot let go of. Once you pinpoint the major reason, perhaps you can unravel the final knot that prevents you from dedicating yourself to healing.

Just as an example, I held onto bulimia because I wanted to be thin, beautiful, coveted, admired, and appreciated. Once I admitted this to myself (I denied it mentally for years, because I didn't want to admit I was so shallow) I realized I was choosing this over being a role model for my son, and that was very upsetting. In truth, I would rather he have a fat and happy mom than a thin and sick one. For me, that was my motivation and dedication factor that allowed myself to stop and never go back.

I hope you find your path, whatever it may be.

"Just as an example, I held onto bulimia because I wanted to be thin, beautiful, coveted, admired, and appreciated. Once I admitted this to myself (I denied it mentally for years, because I didn't want to admit I was so shallow)"

That stigma makes my blood boil. Maybe that was the reason for you to binge/purge but FAR FAR from the reason for my bulimia. Body image had nothing to do with my eating disorder. With the help of a empathetic talented therapist he helped release the original trauma associated with it, helped me regain emotional resilience and I am finally in what I can call recovery.

I know I cannot do what your trying so hard to achieve. At least not yet. I admire you for trying so hard. It won't always be easy, but I am guessing you already know that. Stay strong you can do this. I wish you all the best, and that you can find your true happiness if you haven't already. You give me hope that one day I may be able to start the journey toward recovery. Thank you, and good luck.