## Introduction to Bulimia Nervosa in Primary Care
Dr. Marion Roberts discusses bulimia nervosa, emphasizing its treatment within primary care settings. Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder involving cycles of binge eating and purging that can cause significant health problems.
## Treatment Principles and GP Role
The treatment of bulimia nervosa involves a collaborative approach combining medical management and psychological therapy. General practitioners (GPs) have a critical role in assessing the condition, initiating early interventions, and coordinating referrals to specialized secondary and tertiary services. Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis for patients.
## Referral and Behavioral Interventions
Younger patients and those living with parental support often benefit first from behavioral interventions, especially Family-Based Treatment (FBT), which has strong evidence for effectiveness in eating disorders. This approach is sometimes adapted for bulimia nervosa. GPs are encouraged to be proactive in both assessing patients and referring them to appropriate services and support groups such as the Eating Disorders Association of New Zealand (EDAN).
## Psychological Therapy: CBT
Guided self-help Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an accepted first-line treatment recommended by NICE guidelines. It typically involves a series of around ten 30-minute sessions over five to six months, aided by therapy books and sometimes integrated with treatments for related anxiety or mood disorders. CBT helps patients understand and change behaviors and thoughts that maintain bulimia nervosa.
## Summary
Bulimia nervosa treatment balances medical care with psychological therapy, relying on early detection, effective referral pathways, family support strategies, and evidence-based therapies like CBT to optimize outcomes.
> "The earlier the intervention, the better the prognosis." — Dr. Marion Roberts
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This overview highlights the importance of early, coordinated care in bulimia nervosa management, with primary care as a pivotal setting for patient support and referral coordination.
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YouTube — 2025-11-30