Understanding Bulimia Nervosa: Nurturing Health and Relationships in a Global Community

Moving across the world to study at BYU–Hawaii brings exciting opportunities, but adjusting to a new culture, unfamiliar foods, and academic pressure can be stressful. Sometimes, this stress can impact our relationship with food and our bodies.

The Relationships & Family Development (RFD) office wants to ensure you have the knowledge and support to protect your health. Caring for your physical body is essential to building your capacity for deep, healthy connections and preparing for a celestial family.

What is Bulimia Nervosa?

Bulimia nervosa is a serious, potentially life-threatening emotional and physical health condition. It is characterized by a cycle of behaviors that often happen in secret.

Binge eating

Regularly eating an amount of food that is larger than what most people would eat under similar circumstances, accompanied by a feeling of losing control over eating during the episode. 

Purging (compensatory behaviors)

Engaging in inappropriate behaviors to prevent weight gain after eating. This may include self-induced vomiting, the misuse of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, or engaging in excessive, punishing workouts.    

The Impact of the Cultural Transition

International students may face unique pressures that contribute to disordered eating.

The "Acculturation" Stress

 Adapting to American foods, portions, and Western media standards of beauty can cause distress if they conflict with your home country's lifestyle. 

Isolation and Control

When facing high stress, homesickness, or language barriers, controlling food can feel like a way to regain order in life. However, this cycle quickly disrupts your physical well-being and emotional peace. 

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Because bulimia is often hidden due to feelings of shame or cultural stigma, it is important to know the signs—whether you are struggling yourself or worried about a friend or roommate:

Physical Signs

• Noticeable fluctuations in weight (both up and down). 
  
• Swelling around the jawline or cheeks (from swollen salivary glands). 
  
• Calluses or scars on the back of the hands and knuckles from self-induced vomiting. 
  
• Frequent complaints of fatigue, dizziness, muscle weakness, or severe tooth sensitivity.

Behavioral and Emotional Signs

• Bathroom patterns: Disappearing to the bathroom immediately after meals. 
  
• Food habits: Evidence of missing food, hidden wrappers, or hoarding food in Hale rooms. 
  
• Social withdrawal: Avoiding social gatherings, dinners, or beach outings due to anxiety about food or body appearance. 
  
• Obsessive mindsets: A fixation on calorie counting.

If you are looking for guidance on how to strengthen communication within your family or roommate circles regarding healthy boundaries and self-worth, our doors are always open to you at the Relationships & Family Development office.