Comorbidity of Bulimia Nervosa and Substance Abuse: Etiologies, Treatment Issues, and Treatment Approaches

Abstract

Recently the comorbidity of substance abuse and eating disorders has become a concern. Treating these disorders is particularly important for bulimia nervosa, which is characterized by "binge eating and inappropriate compensatory methods to prevent weight gain" (American Psychiatric Association, 2000, p. 589). In this article we explore common pathways to the development of bulimia nervosa and substance abuse, how treatment is begun, and treatment options (cognitive behavioral therapy/coping skills training and dialectical behavioral therapy). A case study shows the application of coping skills training and dialectical behavioral therapy in clinical practice.