I'm really sorry to hear that you're going through such a difficult situation. What your husband said is not only insensitive but also harmful and dangerous. Eating disorders, including bulimia, are serious mental health conditions that require proper treatment and support. Encouraging or tolerating such behavior is not a healthy or loving approach.
Here are some steps to consider:
Seek professional help: Reach out to a mental health professional or therapist who specializes in eating disorders. They can offer guidance and support to both you and your husband, helping him understand the seriousness of your condition and the importance of appropriate support and treatment.
Communicate openly: Have a heartfelt and honest conversation with your husband about how his words made you feel. Let him know that eating disorders are not a means to achieve weight loss and that they can have severe physical and mental health consequences.
Educate about eating disorders: Provide your husband with educational resources about bulimia and eating disorders in general. Sometimes, people may not fully grasp the seriousness of these conditions and how they can negatively impact a person's life.
Set boundaries: If your husband continues to express harmful or unsupportive views, it's crucial to set clear boundaries to protect your mental health. You may need to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist to navigate this difficult situation.
Consider couples therapy: If you and your husband are both open to it, couples therapy can be beneficial in addressing and resolving issues within the relationship.
Surround yourself with support: Lean on friends, family, or support groups for individuals with eating disorders. Having a support network can provide understanding and empathy during this challenging time.
Focus on recovery: Your priority should be your health and well-being. Work with your treatment team to develop a recovery plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of bulimia.
Practice self-compassion: Remember that you are not defined by your eating disorder, and you are worthy of love and support.
It's essential to remember that eating disorders are complex and cannot be solved with simplistic solutions like trying to lose weight through harmful behaviors. Recovery involves understanding the underlying emotional issues and developing healthier coping strategies. Seek professional help, as recovery is often more successful with the guidance of qualified experts. Take care of yourself, and prioritize your mental and physical well-being.