Bulimia Nervosa
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Barkha ChikaraChief Medical Officer, MD (Psychiatry) from NIMHANS · Last reviewed October 2026Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder in which a person has repeated episodes of binge eating, feels out of control, and then tries to undo it by vomiting, fasting, laxatives or over-exercise. Weight is often typical, so it can be hidden. It is treatable, and therapy works well online.
About 1 in 10 adults in India lives with a mental disorder (National Mental Health Survey, 2015-16). You are not alone.
At a glance
Common signs
- Recurrent binge eating episodes
- Purging
- Sense of loss of control during binges
- Shame and guilt
How it is usually treated
- CBT for eating disorders
- Interpersonal Therapy
- SSRIs
- Nutritional guidance
Where to start
A free pre-consultation call, then a video assessment with a psychiatrist. In danger? Call 112, or Tele-MANAS on 14416.
Book your free pre-consultation callRegistered clinicians: psychiatrists with their State Medical Council, psychologists with the Rehabilitation Council of India.
Signs
Tick any that feel familiar. This is not a diagnosis, only a clinician can assess you.
0 ticked. If these have been with you for a while, a free pre-consultation call is a good next step.
Book your free pre-consultation callHow people often describe it
- “I eat a lot in secret and then feel guilty”
- “I make myself vomit after eating”
- “I feel out of control around food”
- “I use laxatives or fast to make up for eating”
People who live with bulimia nervosa may also notice depression, generalised anxiety or substance use. If any of these sound familiar, mention them to your clinician so your plan can cover them.
When to get help soon
Get help now if there is fainting, chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, repeated vomiting or thoughts of self-harm. Call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. Tele-MANAS is on 14416.
How it is diagnosed
A doctor checks for physical effects, such as low potassium from vomiting, and a psychiatrist assesses eating patterns, mood and shame. Shame often delays help, so honesty is welcomed.
Treatment and support
- CBT for eating disorders, the first-line therapy
- Interpersonal therapy
- Regular eating with nutrition guidance
- Medical monitoring of physical effects
- Treating related depression or anxiety
How Mindly helps
Mindly's psychiatrists offer assessment and therapy by video, with advice on when medical checks are needed. All care is online, by video.
Your first appointment
A psychiatrist asks about eating, weight, mood and physical health in a calm, non-judgemental way, and checks whether any medical tests are needed.
Who is involved
Care brings together a psychiatrist, a clinical psychologist and, where needed, a physician or dietitian.
Between sessions
Regular reviews follow physical safety as well as thoughts and behaviours around food.
What to expect
- Free pre-consultation callWe take your history and details, and match you with the right clinician.
- First consultationA video call in your language, with a clinician who already has your report.
- Your planYour clinician agrees a plan with you: therapy, medicine or both, as suits you.
- Follow-up reviewsRegular check-ins, and your plan is adjusted as you recover.
- Staying wellSupport to keep you well and catch early signs of a setback.
Every Mindly plan includes a second opinion from our Chief Medical Officer, a diagnosis-first approach and regular tracking of your recovery. How Mindly care works
Book your free pre-consultation callYour privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
Can bulimia be treated online?
Yes. CBT for eating disorders can be delivered effectively by video, with medical checks arranged as needed.
Is it the same as anorexia?
No. In bulimia people are often of average weight and binge and purge. Both are serious.
Will I have to share everything at once?
No. Therapy is paced with you.
If you or someone near you is in danger, call 112. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416. Mindly Health is not an emergency service.
Clinicians with a focus in this area
Muskan Jain DesaiClinical Psychologist
Ms. Kamakshi SabharwalClinical Psychologist- Dr. Barkha ChikaraCo-Founder & Chief Medical Officer, Psychiatrist
Dr. Pooja RaniPsychiatrist
Online care in your city
Every consultation is by video, from wherever you are. Choose your city to see how it works.