Distraught That Her Daughter Won’t Self Help

Situation Summary

A mother is concerned that her 18-year-old daughter has bulimia. Although she has tried to talk with her daughter about it, discussions don’t go far and her daughter is refusing treatment by a professional. Is there anything she can do to get her daughter the help she needs?

Questions in Need of Answers

What is bulimia, and how common is it in young women?

What kind of treatments are available, and do any of them really work?

Can you help me to understand why my daughter is so resistant to getting into treatment?

How long does an episode of treatment last?

Are there any books or resources you can recommend to give us more information?