If you find yourself eating when you're not hungry and then intentionally making yourself throw up, it could be a sign of disordered eating patterns. This behavior is often associated with bulimia nervosa rather than anorexia nervosa.
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by cycles of binge eating (consuming large amounts of food in a short period) followed by purging behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or excessive exercise. People with bulimia may experience a sense of loss of control during binge eating episodes and feel guilty or ashamed afterward, leading to purging as a way to compensate for the consumed calories.
Anorexia nervosa, on the other hand, is characterized by severe food restriction and an intense fear of gaining weight, resulting in significant weight loss.
If you're experiencing these symptoms or have concerns about your eating behaviors, it's essential to seek professional help. A mental health professional or a healthcare provider can properly assess your situation, provide an accurate diagnosis, and develop an appropriate treatment plan to support your well-being and recovery.
Reaching out to a therapist, counselor, or a specialized treatment center experienced in eating disorder management can be a critical step in understanding and addressing these issues. Remember, you don't have to face this alone, and there are resources available to help you through this challenging time.