Book Description
Severe dieting often results in periods of reactive binge eating. a phenomenon experienced by one in twenty American women. Responses to these periods may include prolonged fasting, self-induced vomiting, abuse of laxatives and diuretics, and obsessive exercise: all symptoms of bulimia. This workbook contains tools to help bulimics break the cycle of bingeing and reacting, allowing them to take control of their lives and make positive behavior changes. Use it to recognize the symptoms of bulimia, its causes, and the health risks it poses. Then work through the exercises to normalize eating and deal with the issues that underlie the symptoms. Take control of your recovery process with checklists, self-monitoring assessments, and thought diaries.Practical advice and real-life examples reinforce attitudes and offer encouragement. Discover that it is possible to overcome your disorder and live a happier, more fulfilling life.

This comprehensive guide covers everything from bulimia's symptoms, causes, and risks to how to normalize eating, shift eating-disordered thoughts, build on personal strengths, improve self-esteem, deal with underlying issues, prevent relapse, and understand what medications can help. With many real-life examples, this book also helps readers learn through the experiences of other sufferers how to overcome their disorder and live a happier, more fulfilled life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Practical and Life Impacting
This book contains nuggets of truth as well as helpful, practical suggestions for coping with symptoms of bulimia.This book is a great companion to: "Hope, Help and Healing" By Dr. Greg Jantz.Based on the absolute truth of the Bible, you will be given insight regarding your childhood and discover how you were set up to fall into the lifestyle you desperately struggle against.You will discover freedom, day-by-day, as you trust Jesus and are filled with the Holy Spirit.YOU CAN BE FREE!
Hope, Help, and Healing for Eating Disorders: A New Approach to Treating Anorexia, Bulimia, and Overeating

Overcoming Bulimia workbook
This is the best resource for eating disorder self-help I have seen. Widely applicable for those who binge and purge by a number of definitions, including overexercising and subjective binging. Addresses a comprehensive range of related issues such as anxiety, obsessiveness, and perfectionism. Practical with real step-by-step things you can actually DO, ways to measure your progress, and encouragement about expected setbacks. Very strongly recommended.

Really Helpful Book
This workbook is good for many reasons.It is written in a way that is easy to read, and very interesting.It does not seem at all like a dry textbook.It covers everything from defining eating disorders, to the root of the problem, to steps to take to begin recovering.I would highly recommend it for all ages.

Easy to follow instructions, but can be improved
The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow.It would have been better if the authors had given guidelines on how to judge when to move on to the next phase of recovery, and how to deal with feelings that arise at each stage.

Using with my therapist and DBT
This book breaks it down and then builds you up on a path to recovery. I use it as part of the things I pick up when I absolutely don't know what to do next and the disease is beating down my door. Very well written. Highly recommended for the bullimic that is ready for recovery. ... Read more

Book Description
This fifth edition is completely updated and expanded, and offers a complete understanding of bulimia and a plan for recovery. It includes:

o Answers to questions most often asked about bulimia
o Insight from more than 400 recovered and recovering bulimics
o A Three-Week Program to Stop Bingeing
o Specific advice for loved-ones
o Things to do instead of bingeing
o Lindsey Hall's own inspiring story, "Eat Without Fear"
o Suggestions from professional eating disorders therapists ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

A Great Experience
This book is awesome it has a three week guide to stop bingeing, I do the homework and all the morning warmups, it is a must to have if you are stuggling with Bulimia.

Insightful
This book is not only a wonderful resource for sufferers of bulimia. But it is also a resource for thier family and friends. The book explains bulimia, tells Lindsey Hall's personal story, and has a special chapter for family and loved ones. Everyone who suffers from bulimia or has a spouse, family member, or friend with bulimia, should read this book.

A Guide to Recovery Review
This book was full of useful information and written so the layman could understand.I was completely satisfied with the information I received.

A blessing
I have been battling this horrible disease for almost a year now. I am lucky to have sought help a lot quicker than others, and I began reading this book the day I didn't purge for the first time in 3 months. I am on day 3 of no purging right now, and when ever I get stressed or something triggers bulimia, I open this book and read the stuff is says over and over again. I am seeking out a therapist, but this book is helping me stay strong right now. I highly recommend this. I think others might get frustrated with this book because THEY haven't decided to quit. It takes your innerself to quit an addiction, outside sources only help you. If you aren't ready to commit, then I can see why you would not like this book. But no book will make you quit. In addition to being helpful to a bulimic, it had great information that you can photocopy and give to people who want to help you. It really lets them understand all the pain you are going through. Good luck, and remember, you aren't alone.

nothing novel
I have read just about everything written with regard to eating disorders since about the beginning of time, and this book stands out as one of the starkest examples of someone trying to exploit the disease and make a career out of being a "recovered eating disorder."Aside from this, the book offers no insight that cannot be found in any other routine book on eating disorders.A waste of my money, and even more disappointing, a waste of my time. ... Read more

Book Description
"Having read many books on eating disorders, I am always inspired by ones that are written from a personal perspective. Learning To Be Me is so honest and bravely written. It offers readers immense hope, and I am already recommending it to some of my clients."
-Andrea Wachter, coauthor of The Don't Diet, Live-It! Workbook

Customer Reviews (18)

Did I read a different book?
I was influenced by the overwhelming positive reviews of the book so I decided to see what this book was about myself.After reading the book I disagree with the majority of the reviewers (who may have been swayed by the fact they felt a personal connection to the reader).It must be noted that I personally do not suffer from an eating disorder but I read the book in hopes of helping me to understand what it is like to suffer from one. While the author does her fair share recounting her experience with bulimia it is poorly written (it almost reads like a first-person narrative by a teenager with simple sentences and limited vocabulary) and cumbersome to get through at times.A previous reviewer mentioned that s/he felt like s/he was reading an unedited copy of the book and I echo this sentiment.Golden's story while appropriately deserving of empathy lacks depth and insight and somewhat rambles on in a disorganized fashion.In any event, the book starts to get better at about the middle when she starts to go into detail about her binges and purges and the reality of her behavior sets in.As many others have mentioned she does not go into much detail about the recovery process because the book was written during the time she was recovering.Also, while this is somewhat minor, the titles of her chapters have little relevance to the content of the chapters and come across as being kitschy (e.g., "My Blanket of Shadows", "Home Sweet Hurt", and "From a Whisper to a Silent Scream").

Learning to Be Me: My Twenty-Three-Year Battle with Bulimia
Learning to Be Me: My Twenty-Three-Year Battle with Bulimia
Jocelyn Golden did a great job writing this book.It really was one of the best I've read on bulimia.The main character is trapped in a house with people who are supposed to love and comfort her but are incredibly and selfishly indifferent to her yet intolerably critical.Overcoming such odds really is remarkable and stands as an example for others.I highly recommend this book.

THE BOOK I HAD BEEN LOOKING FOR
I had been looking for a book that would help me understand the thought process behind a bulimic's behavior, in an effort to help a family member. I wanted to get inside the head of a bulimic, I wanted to FEEL what a bulimic does, no other book did this for me - Jocelyn Golden's "Learning to be me" did!I've read many bulimia books in my quest to educate myself, but none gave me the insight I gained by reading Ms. Golden's book. I highly recommend "Learning To Be Me" to any sister, mother or other relative trying to help a loved one.It gave me the courage to confront my relative, one more time, and present her with support and treatment options even though I know it may sever our relationship - I love her that much. I thank Ms. Golden for the difference her talented writing has made in my life and for portraying the facts clearly and with emotion.

I would love to see another book by this author.

Strictly amemoir
I read this memoir and realized very quickly, that Memoir was an accurate category for this book.It certainly does not belong in self help/recovery.
Jocelyn's narrative keeps repeating descriptions of her terrible life in a way that makes this tragic disease seem petty.I have endured this dis-ease for 23 plus years and I found Aimee Lu's book "Life after an Eating Disorder" so full of hope and rcovery and revelation about this disease.
I found this book to be full of triggers and narcissistic thoughts. It is a "Go Ask Alice" for eating disorders.
""Sensing the Self" is also fantastic, but a little more clinical. If you are looking for recovery, read about recovery.If you are looking for a description of how tragic and destructive and miserable an addiction can be, read a memoir.

Learning to be me
Great motivational reading for anyone suffering from an eating disorder.The author Jocelyn Golden has a great website and even took the time to respond to my email question!The book inspired me to seek treatment at an inpatient facility after 22 years of bulimia.I encourage others suffering from this disease to read the book and seek counseling and treatment.I am inspired and am encouraged and have hope that I can face the bulimic beast inside! ... Read more

Book Description
The classic book that offers understanding and a positive approach.Sherman and Thompson answer the questions asked most frequently by the families and friAnds of bulimics. Why do some women become bulimic? What are the medical risks? The authors—both experts on the causes and treatment of eating disorders—have created the first authoritative step-by-step guide to this complex disease. They reveal bulimia's insidious nature including the fact that those who care the most about helping can actually make things worse. Filled with practical information and advice, this essential resource offers hope to millions of bulimics and their loved ones. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Everybody should read this book
This book not only gives information about bulimia, but also about eating disorders in general.Furthermore, it gives information about types of personalities, family dynamics and the effect the environment has on all of us.All of this in a clear and articulate way without any psychology jargon.

A Very Helpful Book
I found this book very helpful.It helped me understand the problem, but it especially had a lot of good info on what I can and should do now.Thank you so much .

Read this and get help
This is a great book for a spouse or a fmaily member who wants to help.It details what is happening and what can be done.However, it is not a substitute for therapy.Please get help for your loved one immediately. There is hope.

provides hope for all involved
Our daughter was lucky enough to have been treated by Drs. Thompson andSherman and she was able to overcome this dreadful eating disorder.Evenwith their personal attention, we found their book was a wealth ofinformation, advice and pure hope for all of us.If you can't speakdirectly with the authors, reading the book will certainly be of help onthe road to a cure.

Tremendous resource for family and friends.
I have 9 years of experience with bulimia of a family member and also teach others about eating disorders.This is a tremendous resource. It's very well written! ... Read more

Amazon.com
"I fell for the great American dream, female version, hook, line, and sinker," Marya Hornbacher writes. "I, as many young women do, honest-to-God believed that once I Just Lost a Few Pounds, suddenly I would be a New You, I would have Ken-doll men chasing my thin legs down with bouquets of flowers on the street, I would become rich and famous and glamorous and lose my freckles and become blond and five foot ten." Hornbacher describes in shocking detail her lifelong quest to starve herself to death, to force her short, athletic body to fade away. She remembers telling a friend, at age 4, that she was on a diet. Her bizarre tale includes not only the usual puking andstarving, but also being confined to mental hospitals and growing fur (a phenomenon called lanugo, which nature imposes to keep a body from freezing to death during periods of famine).Book Description

Why would a talented young woman enter into a torrid affair with hunger, drugs, sex, and death? Through five lengthy hospital stays, endless therapy, and the loss of family, friends, jobs, and all sense of what it means to be "normal," Marya Hornbacher lovingly embraced her anorexia and bulimia -- until a particularly horrifying bout with the disease in college put the romance of wasting away to rest forever. A vivid, honest, and emotionally wrenching memoir, Wasted is the story of one woman's travels to reality's darker side -- and her decision to find her way back on her own terms.

Why would a talented young girl go through the looking glass and step into a netherworld where up is down and food is greed, where death is honor and flesh is weak? Why enter into a love affair with hunger, drugs, sex, and death? Marya Hornbacher sustains both anorexia and bulimia through five lengthy hospitalizations, endless therapy, and the loss of family, friends, jobs, and ultimately, any sense of what it means to be "normal." By the time she is in college, Hornbacher is in the grip of a bout with anorexia so horrifying that it will forever put to rest the romance of wasting away. In this vivid, emotionally wrenching memoir, she re-created the experience and illuminated that tangle of personal, family, and cultural causes underlying eating disorders. Wasted is the story of one woman's travels to the darker side of reality, and her decision to find her way back--on her own terms. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (390)

If you liked Wurtzel, you'll LOVE Hornbacher
This is not a book about recovery. There is nothing suggesting recovery in this book. As I read it, I kept thinking about the ouevre of Elizabeth Wurtzel. Different maladies, but it sounds almost as if one of them copied the other's homework and they both turned in essentially the same thing.

Same misplaced condescension to the reader, same self-centered whining, same blaming of others, same histrionics as Wurtzel. And to make it worse, Hornbacher gives several instances of how she lied to people or otherwise tried to trick them into leaving her alone with her ED. Why should anyone believe her now?

Like Wurtzel ... same bitter precociousness (all width and no depth), same obliviousness to other people, but very little substance and no self-awareness or wisdom of any kind. At the end of the book she sounds like the same manipulative person she ever was.

And what is Amy Fisher doing on the cover?

I've read reviews here written by people in recovery from EDs. If it matters, please know that my comments are not directed to you, nor was I saying anything about people with EDs in general. I just got really tired of Marya Hornbacher about halfway through the book, and the second half didn't improve my opinion.

i've never read this book.
i've never read this book, but i knowit very well,
mainly because my best friend in the entire world read this book while going through an extreme eating disorder.

if i ever saw this book in a store i would take it home and burn it. it ruined her life, it really did.

my friend used it as a guidebook itstead of a pleasure read. it was highlighted and had post-its all over it.

this book is not reading material, its a dangerous tool.

"Wasted" is not constructive
I did not finish this book, and I'm not going to review it's contents.

I picked up the book when I was beginning to emerge from the denial of my own eating disorder, and I thought it would help me find ways to recover, or at least give me some insight as to where to begin my recovery process. I found exactly the opposite, and I disagree with the recommendations in other reviews that we should give this book to teenage girls.

I found myself reading, and feeding off of the author's thoughts, behaviors, and feelings surrounding her perpetuating eating disorder [remember, I didn't finish the book]. I did not find empowerment to recoverfrom my eating disorder to avoid being where the author was in the times she wrote about. Rather, I TOOK ADVICE from the book! I guess it's my fault for picking up a memoir in search of empowerment.

This is NOT a good book to give to any teenage girl or any person with an eating disorder.

If you are looking for an empowering eating disorder recovery book for yourself or someone you love, I highly recommend "Life Without Ed" by Jenni Schaefer.

And you thought your life was bad
This was a thorough and detailed account of Hornbacher's eating disorder and her vacillating between bulimia and anorexia. Overall it was an easy read and it will resonate well with those who are personally affected by an eating disorder. While this book had its strengths and is probably one of the better first-hand accounts of a severe eating disorder, one of the problems I had with Hornbacher stylistically is that she is very self-aggrandizing. If you want an example of this skip ahead to the "PS" section of "About the Author" which is an update about her life since the book was written.It is written in the third person but presumably Hornbacher wrote this herself since the page basically summarizes the accolades she has received as if to overcompensate for her lack of an educational history earlier in her life. This narcissism is rather typical of her writing as it presents itself throughout the book and she walks a fine line between appearing self-pitiful versus self-righteous.My other complaint is that I don't think Hornbacher herself was completely in tune with herself when she wrote the book. In other words she delivers the process and thinking behind the disorders, paints an excellent backdrop, but she is not necessarily self-aware of who she is as a person. She has the intellectual capacity to fill in the details but not necessarily the maturity and meaningful insight that makes for a compelling memoir. It is clear that a large part of her identity is lost in these disorders. Till this day she has a symbiotic relationship with her eating disorder. I get the feeling at the end that she feels self-entitled to her disorder which is why she clings on to it.She doesn't know of any other life without it or any other way.

Lurid details and brutal self-reflection, but look out for triggers
While reading the book, my main thought was how brave(?) Marya was to disclose all of the lurid details of her sickness. As a bulimic myself, my first priority is secrecy at all costs.

Yes, I thought she was a total jerk and it amazed me that other people put up with her as long as they did. While the details of her eating disorder are disgusting and shocking--not exactly glamorizing her sickness--I do agree that the book is a trigger. I had been in remission for several months, but started again soon after reading this book. Why? I believe it's because, thanks to the book, I know what rock bottom is. In comparison, I binge-purge only 2-3 times a week. As long as someone is worse than me (and still lives), I feel I can keep it around.

The book I read that did make me stop bingeing and purging was "Overcoming Binge Eating" by Chris Fairburn. There are plenty of personal story excerpts from those suffering from overeating and bulimia, but importantly there are very good suggestions for how to adopt a more normal, healthy diet and perspective. ... Read more

Book Description

Hearing about the destructive compulsion of bulimia nervosa, outsiders may wonder, "How could you ever start?" Those suffering from the eating disorder ask themselves in despair, "How can I ever stop?" How do you break the cycle of bingeing, vomiting, laxative abuse, and shame? While many books describe the descent into eating disorders and the resulting emotional and physical damage, this book describes recovery.

Psychologist Sheila Reindl has listened intently to women's accounts of recovering. Reindl argues compellingly that people with bulimia nervosa avoid turning their attention inward to consult their needs, desires, feelings, and aggressive strivings because to do so is to encounter an annihilating sense of shame. Disconnected from internal, sensed experience, bulimic women rely upon external gauges to guide their choices. To recover, bulimic women need to develop a sense of self--to attune to their physical, psychic, and social self-experience. They also need to learn that one's neediness, desire, pain, and aggression are not sources of shame to be kept hidden but essential aspects of humanity necessary for zestful life. The young women with whom Reindl speaks describe, with great feeling, their efforts to know and trust their own experience.

Perceptive, lucid, and above all humane, this book will be welcomed not only by professionals but by people who struggle with an eating disorder and by those who love them.

Customer Reviews (4)

Excellent
This book reaches to the core issues related to recovering from Bulimia. As a recovering bulimic for 2 years it helps me see some of the deepest issues and how to deal with them to remain recovered. It's an excellent book though it is a bit clinical.

Amazing Book
After combing through several books on bulimia, this one was like a breath of fresh air. It was like reading about myself, actually seeing how women contracted and healed from bulimia. It gives me hope that we all can.

Best book on eating disorders I have ever read!
This book is incredible. After suffering from anorexia and bulimia for the last four years, I have constantly looked for books on eating disorders. I found it not only easy to relate to all of the people who contributed their stories, but also extremely inspiring to know that other people out there have had the same "crazy" thoughts as me! This is a open-to-any-page-and-start-reading book. Truly awesome.

This book is AWESOME !
Finally, a book that gets to the heart of how a person with an eating disorder really feels and what is really helpful.As someone who previously had an eating disorder, and has read a ton of books on the subject, I can honestly say this is the best one I have read so far.A little more expensive but WELL worth it, to anyone struggling with an eating disorder.It hits home so much sometime that it just made me cry - very, very helpful. ... Read more

Book Description
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been proven effective for treating Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. However, this type of program requires at least 6 months of weekly sessions with a qualified mental health professional. If you suffer from an eating disorder and want to get treatment, but have little time to devote to therapy, a shorter, time-limited program may be right for you.This workbook outlines a Guided Self-Help (GSH) program based on the principles of CBT. Although sessions with a therapist or clinician are required, there are usually no more than 12 and each one is only 25 minutes long. You will do much of the treatment on your own using the workbook as your guide. You will learn and practice the skills you need to overcome your eating disorder and establish healthy habits, while consulting with your therapist for encouragement and support. Through daily self-monitoring of your eating patterns, and strategies such as challenging negative thoughts and formal problem-solving, you will reduce your desire to binge and purge. GSH is hard work, but the benefits are well worth it. If you have the desire and the drive, you can use this workbook to eliminate your eating disorder once and for all. ... Read more

Book Description
A Year in the Life of Bulimia is basically an account of the past year of my life. In it, you will see brutal honesty, anger, confusion, insight, and naivety. I analyze how the personalities of my mom, dad, and sister, and my relationship with them, have influenced me. The entries about binge-purge episodes seem just as surreal to me as they might to you—a scary fact because it proves how little control I had over my eating and my life. Yet, as the girl in this manuscript, I believed I was in complete control, and that wasting away was the perfect solution to everything. The whole story of the devastation and duration that characterizes many eating disorder cases is not present in this book because I decided to reach back out to life before it was too late. Sadly, eating disorders do typically tend to get worse—much, much worse. But the crazy thoughts that were generated from my starving mind were horrifying, nonetheless. Recovery was not easy, but it was possible with a strong and pure will to move on. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Couldn't finish it
I read this book, or well, started to read this book about a year ago.While it's really short, I couldn't finish it.It is does describe life with an eating disorder, but I found myself getting bored, which is atypical.

One of the best books I've read...
This book was amazing.Though short, it accurately describes what life with an eating disorder is like.I got to the end of the book and started to read it again immediately.I just couldn't get enough.The author's poetry was astounding.I felt like I was right there with her, feeling her pain.This book is a must read! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Honest Hope
I read your book last week and it was very good!I was impressed not only with the undertaking of writing the book itself, but with the real, honest, open and straight forward way in which you talk about your struggles.It is an inspiration to anyone who struggles with an addiction of any kind.I don't often get to discuss bulimia with my patients because most young girls won't admit to it.But when I do find someone struggling with an eating disorder, especially if they are Christian, I will recommend that they read your book.Your personal journey of recovery, as the subtitle calls it, reads like a companion talking to the reader.I think this approach would be very helpful for a young person struggling to admit and accept their disorder to realize that it is a real problem, they are not crazy and there is hope.Thank you for the gift of sharing your story!I am certain many people will benefit from your courage.

Powerful story
The author's story is powerful.Her struggling from the depths of despair and self-loathing to confidence and being able to help others is inspirational.Any man or woman fighting against an eating disorder should gain hope, strength and "techniques" for survival from this book.

amazing insights!
I have struggled with an eating disorder for a long time and read many books on it, but this one really broke through to the core of my being.I'm going to read it over and over.It gave me a lot of hope and I think it'd help anyone with not only any addiction but just whoever is struggling to grow closer to God amidst life's "stuff". ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (12)

The story of a beautiful and talented young woman who suffers, and eventually dies from, an eating disorder
"Andrea's Voice Silenced By Bulimia: Her Story and Her Mother's Journey Through Grief Toward Understanding" is a final legacy organized and co-written by both Andrea's mother, Doris Smeltzer, and Andrea herself in the form of her journals and papers. This compelling account tells the story of a beautiful and talented young woman who suffers, and eventually dies from, an eating disorder. "Andrea's Voice" represents a great lesson woven from painful experience. Doris Smeltzer is co-founder of the eating disorder prevention nonprofit organization, Andrea's Voice Foundation. Through the finely crafted voices and carefully chosen writings in "Andrea's Voice," her mother presents both the deep isolationism of the disordered eater, her daughter, and the close bond that still enriches her life today, when her daughter's living voice is silenced. "Andrea's Voice" is both a deeply compassionate, inspirational tribute to the life of Andrea, and a search for clues and tools to stem the outcome in others with disordered eating. "Andrea's Voice" is both a clinical and a very human look at the relationship between Andrea and her mother, shared to help others afflicted with eating disorders -- or have loved ones who are faced with such potentially dangerous health issues.

An Important Book For Parents, Especially Mothers
I highly recommend this book to parents of young women with eating disorders.Andrea's Voice is a deeply personal and eloquently told account of a mother's quest to bring her daughter through an eating disorder.This book offers something more than publications written by the "experts"--the books that tell parents what the best treatment is--it describes what it's actually like to confront an eating disorder, and how it affects a family.This is the real thing.

Shows long-term effect of bulimia
Reviewed by Stephanie Rollins for Reader Views (6/06)

"Andrea's Voice" is written by Doris Smeltzer, the mother of Andrea Smeltzer.Andrea Smeltzer was bulimic.Throughout the book, Doris Smeltzer tries to understand what caused the bulimia.She incorporates Andrea's journal entries and poetry through the book.This lets the reader feel Andrea's confusion and helplessness.

Doris Smeltzer internally battles the blame for Andrea's disease. Like so many mothers, she wonders if she did everything she could do to be a good role model for her daughter.She writes, "One of the most important goals in my life, prior to Andrea's death, was to become the best mother ever--another aspiration toward perfection.This target provided a secure hiding place for me...I think that Andrea sensed, at almost a primal level, that her mother was in hiding.Maybe if I had faced my fears, Andrea would have been able to face hers."

This book does not explain why Andrea developed bulimia.It does not describe how the family has come to terms with her death.However, it shows the long-term effect of the disease on Andrea and her family both before and after her death.This book is clearly a healing tool for Doris Smeltzer."Andrea's Voice" can be a healing tool for bulimics and their families.As Doris Smeltzer explains, "Grief must be shared."

EVERYONE needs to hear Andrea 's Voice.
Thank you Doris for not preserving your journey with Andrea but for sharing, reaching and teaching all that you learned from her. I heard Andrea's voice when I was unable to hear my daughters'.She guided me on what I needed to do for them and told me what I needed to hear.....and I listened...for the first time...I listened .....Thank you for your bravery and courage and inspiration.Thank you for sharing the deepest part of your soul, and thank you for trusting that we needed you to.

Moving Must-Read Tribute
Andrea's Voice is a moving tribute to an incredibly wise young woman and a family whose bond is inspiring.As someone who has been deeply affected by Andrea's struggle with an eating disorder and my own, this book both warmed my heart and broke it anew.There is so much here to be learned and reminded of regardless of whether or not one has been directly touched by an eating disorder.Doris' words, along with Andrea's, have the potential to begin a critical societal discussion about how we - as parents, siblings, partners, friends, co-workers, educators, treatment professionals, media personalities, policymakers - contribute to the thoughts that encourage disordered eating behaviors.As importantly, though, this book helps us begin to reevaluate and change our expectations and judgments of others and ourselves.In writing Andrea's Voice, Doris Smeltzer has given us incredible gifts:insight into her own journey and the gift of her daughter.Each person who reads this will be changed. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description
Anorexics and bulimics are often lost for words.Most are women.They feel they have no way to communicate effectively. They have not found the words to express and name the turmoil of their experience to themselves or others.This leaves them in a world where neither food nor words can provide nourishment and sustenance. This book explores the nature of anorexia and bulimia, paying particular attention to the issues of mortality and the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship.It stresses the importance for technique of understanding the violent and agonising nature of these individuals' inner worlds. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Loss for Words
Whew, this book left me confused and was returned to the library the next day. If you like to read about Freud and his ideas behind why we are Anorexic or Bulimic then you may like this. It also blames the mother for everything!

Drivel
This is one of the worst books on this topic that I have ever read.It is not well written, is hard to follow, and is so far out in left field that I couldn't finish it.I'm ashamed to say I even bought the book.The author needs to do some current research on the subject.This is a terrible book and I would not recommend it to anyone.

Insightful theories
This book has some very insightful theories on the development of anorexia.Well worth adding to your collection if you are interested in the topic.

Challenging, informative, "reader friendly" survey.
In Lost For Words, psychoanalytic psychotherapist Em Farrell presents achallenging and informative survey on the psychoanalysis of patientssuffering with anorexia or bulimia. After concluding his informativeintroduction, Farrell surveys our psychanalytic understands of theseconditions, then explores the body and "body products" astransitional objects and phenomena within the context of psychanalytictheory, details implications for psychotherapeutic techniques, andfinishing with an thought-provoking conclusion. Lost For Words is highlyrecommended reading on the subjects of anorexia and bulimia for students ofpsychology, as well as practicing counselors and clinical therapists. ... Read more

Book Description
Here is a basic source of information on the dynamics of eating disorders, written by two therapists who pioneered in treating them. This accessible and empowering book now adds four new chapters: "Anorexia Nervosa: Sociocultural Perspectives," "Intensive Psychotherapy with Anorexics," "Surviving Managed Care" (addressed especially to therapists), and "Our Daughters, Ourselves." The book includes stories of bulimic and anorexic women in their own words—sympathetic peer-group voices to encourage women who have begun treatment or are considering it. The author also describes new school and college programs designed to help students who have eating disorders. Marlene Boskind-White draws on twenty-five years of clinical experience to set forth what actually works to combat and overcome bulimia and anorexia, focusing on ways to strengthen positive attitudes and develop practical coping skills. She evaluates new therapies and new medications such as Prozac and presents essential information on physiology and nutrition. ... Read more

Book Description
Dr. Sacker and Dr. Zimmer explain in full detail the causes and symptoms of these disorders and how and where to find help. Using case histories and first-person accounts by patients, their families, their physicians and friends, Dying To Be Thin is the complete resource for anyone concerned with these dangerous disorders. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A Life Vest Thrown Into A Stormy Ocean
With society placing the stress it does on females being physically thin, I think the numbers this book quotes for the totals of US women with serious eating disorders is, if anything, on the low side. I along with virtually every woman I know has at one time or another had what amounts to an eating disorder and in a few cases, had them to a serious extent. With body image being as important as it is, particularly with teenage girls, I'm pessimistic that this book or anything else can do more than try to spur the one suffering from this insidious disease to WANT to do something about her affliction. I read this book because I was curious to see if things have gotten any better in the last decade as far as treatment of eating disorders goes, and also in the level of collective recognition among young women that a disorder is there in their own lives. From what I read here, I'd say the answer to both is no. On the positive side, this book did one of the better examples of addressing this life-threatening situation and if it can be gotten to the right hands, it could truthfully save some lives that might be in danger right at this very moment.

Amazing - the authors have an in depth view of the disease
Dying to be Thin helped me in ways beyond measure. I knew that a lot of what I was doing to my body was destructive, but only after reading the book did I want to seek help to end the disease- or try to at least. A big thank you and hugs to the authors.

Wonderful book. It gave me the courage to quit.
I would recommend this book to anyone, but especially those who suffer from anorexia or bullemia.I purchased this book at the height of mydisease in 1997 and it gave me the courage to quit.The stories are realand so easy to relate to.I cried through half the book realizing howpathetic I was.I would love to someday personally thank the authors...

Excellent and complete case studies-format; packed with info
I read this book as my daughter was hospitalized for anorexia.The fear and guilt were HUGE as I began reading (they still are) but Zimmer's and Sacker's work as an M.D. specializing in Eating Disorders has provided much-needed insight into sufferers' motivations and pain.My daughter, age 14, marked all the pages that "spoke" to her...she marked MANY pages. Authors Zimmer and Sacker attempt, and for the most part succeed, in explaining all variations of EDs. Esp poignant for me were the comments from a mother, and her powerlessness to stop her daughter from destroying herself through starvation.I bought several copies to distribute to family members so that they can support my daughter in recovery.Very useful is a section for educators on how they can assist a student who has an ED. ... Read more

Book Description
If you suffer from Bulimia Nervosa or Binge-Eating Disorder, you know how hard it can be to change your problem behaviors surrounding food and eating. However, with the right tools and support, you can overcome your disorder and return to a healthy way of life. Based on the principles of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, the program described in this newly revised and updated workbook will teach you the skills you need to overcome your eating disorder and establish healthy habits. Through daily self-monitoring, you will learn to regularize you eating and expand the variety of foods that you consume. This will help you maintain a healthy weight and will reduce your desire to binge and purge. You will also learn techniques for solving problems, challenging your negative thoughts, and addressing your concerns about weight and shape. Use the workbook to share information with friends and loved ones so they can support and encourage you throughout the treatment process.When used in conjunction with visits to a qualified mental health professional, this workbook will help you realize the triggers for your disordered eating habits. Once you are able to identify them, you can eliminate them. At the end of treatment, we fully expect that you will have reduced the number of your binge eating and purging episodes, improved your body image, and gained a sense of mastery and control over your eating. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Honest
Was I ever impressed with her genunine honesty, which is so lacking in the world today. This book is so insightful and emotional. It is more of a biography than a book about bulimia but I do recommed it. Leah let's people know her deepest thoughts and heartbreak. That takes courage.

lacking
I have both me Leah and read her book.I met her on two occasions at conferences I attended.I also read her book.The book does look into the horrors that I know are part of the struggle with the 'demon'.However, I question the sincerity in the author.Due to the reception I received from her at both encounters, I question the sincerity of her attempts and wonder if it isn't all a grasp at further fame.

An honest reflection from a wonderful person
Leah Hulan was my roommate at the 1994 Miss USA Pageant in South Padre, Texas (I was Miss North Dakota). The reflection and insight this book relects is real.Leah truly is a person we would all like to be like... and for her to have the courage and strength to share her story is a gift to the rest of us. The book is wonderfully written. This book would be helpful to anyone struggling with their own disease or for those knowing those who are.

Leah Hulan attacks the subject of eating disorders
I think this book is an excellent detail of how society puts pressures on young women to be beautiful and femimine, no matter how hurt and mistreated you are on the inside. Love yourselves, Eleni

This book tells of a horrifying disease in which many suffer
As I read this book I remembered my aspects of my own eating disorder. I felt as though demons had taken over my body and I had to fight them off. There were days that I was as normal as the next person, but then therewere days that I could not remember even waking in the morning. I was in atreatment facility with Leah a few years ago. She seemed to have a grip onbreaking the cycle. However, it can still be a struggle when times getrough. She bares all in this graphic tale of her life as she lived it. Iadmire her courage to re-live those years. ... Read more

Book Description
I’ve studied more or less every course on writing in the nearly twenty years that I’ve been educated, so I’d like to think I’ve learnt a bit on the subject. I’ve a passion for culture and hope to one day work as a professional language translator. What inspired me to finally pursue publication of Cinderella in the Attic was to not only give myself a voice but also to advocate for everyone who suffers from an eating disorder, depression, or anything that’s not letting his or her life be the most rewarding it can be. I suffered with bulimia and depression for most of my life completely in silence; it is with this book that I hope to encourage everyone out there who’s enduring a secret war alone to get the help they need. This book to me is not only about the illness I’ve faced but also in a way demonstrates just how inattentive we can be toward those around us when we get too caught up in the daily grind. In fact, it’s only now that what I’ve been going through all this time has come to light. It’s so important to love one another every day and pay attention to even the most minuscule details. It may save someone’s life. —P.H., 2006 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Chaotic and disordered waste of time
Anyone looking for a good read would no doubt find this book a disappointment. It's more of a jumble of assorted self indulgent ramblings with no "meat", and no point but to purge the author's mind of her claustrophic and downright uncomfortable thoughts. If you are reading this as a person suffering from an ED and hoping for some clarity or important insights, this is not the book for you. ... Read more

Book Description
Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of binge-eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviour.It affects 1-2% of the population, the majority of cases occurring in women between the ages of 16 and 35.This book provides a comprehensive and detailed review of the key psychological aspects of the disorder and places particular emphasis on cognitive considerations.The coverage includes the key features of Bulimia Nervosa, associated problems, psychological theories and different treatment approaches.There is special focus on cognitive factors with case examples used to illustrate the two most articulated cognitive treatments for the disorder.Emerging topics, such as imagery and metacognition are covered, as are service issues, such as stepped care and practice guidelines.Drawing on research and theory from cognitive and non-clinical areas of psychology, The Psychology of Bulimia Nervosa provides an original and challenging perspective on this debilitating condition.It questions assumptions about cognitive theory of Bulimia Nervosa and the role of standard cognitive therapy in treating the problem, suggests novel ideas, and a revised treatment and outlines areas for further research activity. ... Read more