[Ganganthefatman]

I want to know more about it from a more personal standpoint. Like someone who actually did (or does) it, although any input is welcome. My girlfriend does it, and it's hurting me a lot. I obviously want to do what I can to help her, which is why I'm trying my best to hold myself together, for her.

I've gotten some advice on how I should talk to her, and it's helped a lot. But I still want to know more about the illness itself that way I have better knowledge on this situation. I really don't want her to hurt herself at all anymore. It's just too painful, for the both of us.

[BioAdoptMom3]

Eating disorders often indicated an underlying mental illness which needs treatment in order to get the purging to stop. It also indicates a need for control (which is common in mental illness and in people who have recently suffered a loss or to whom something has recently happened to take away their sense of security). The underlying issue has to be dealt with before healing can begin. She needs to see a professional, so I would encourage her to do that, and also just be there for her!

Nancy