Online bulimia treatment trial

Bulimia and anorexia rank among the top ten causes of injury and disease in Australian women aged 15 to 24.

Although eating disorders are believed to affect a significant number of Australians, many sufferers are too embarrassed to seek face-to-face treatment.

To help people with bulimia nervosa, Jacqueline Baulch - a doctoral research student at Swinburne University - has developed an online treatment program in conjunction with the National e-Therapy Centre. Bulimia Online addresses areas such as food monitoring, body image and self-esteem.

"Bulimia is a psychological eating disorder characterised by episodes of binge-eating followed by vomiting, fasting, enemas, laxatives, or compulsive exercising," Baulch said. "People often binge in response to stress, overwhelming emotions and self-esteem issues.

"This cycle of binging and purging can become extremely difficult to break out of without professional help."

Frequent purging presents a serious threat to the individual's physical health, causing dehydration, hormonal imbalance, the depletion of important minerals, and damage to vital organs.

"People with bulimia are often reluctant to seek specialist help," Baulch said. "But studies have shown that online programs are an effective and safe way for people to be treated for many mental health issues, including eating disorders."

Baulch is seeking people with bulimia to take part in a trial of Bulimia Online. For more information visit Anxiety Online or email jbaulch@swin.edu.au