After suffering from eating disorders over the past three decades, a 43-year-old Canadian woman has gone public with her struggle and her decision to finally get help.

A Jan. 11 Abbotsford (British Columbia) News article by Vikki Hopes provided the following glimpse into the life of Carla Bartlett-Hitchings:

Carlas self-worth had been eroded by an abusive environment. She thought she was fat and ugly, and she wanted to look like that model.

Purging made her feel good; like she was in control in a world that was otherwise supremely chaotic. Subconsciously, it was a form of self-abuse: She didnt deserve better because she was so unloveable. &

Carlas eating disorder  bulimia for most of her life, turning to anorexia in the last year  stems from a childhood riddled with abuse: emotional, physical, verbal and sexual.

Her parents were both alcoholic, and her mom suffered from what was later diagnosed as bipolar disorder. Carla would often hide in her closet, the only place she felt safe from the insanity of her home.

Once the eating disorder took hold, Carla couldnt let go. It made her feel strong and empowered: I finally have control. Look what I can do.

I dont know why Im not dead, Bartlett-Hitchings said in the article. Maybe its to encourage people.

Labels: self-image_issues, overcoming_an_eating_disorder, overcoming bulimia, trauma

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Stressful life events such as car accidents or a parent's death can mark the beginning of an eating disorder in young adults.

Researchers at the University of Minnesota found that 32 percent of young women and 20 percent of young men in their study who report three or more stressful life events also suffer from eating disorders. The study is the first phase of a three-part project from the University's Epidemiology and Community Heath division.

Katie Loth, lead author, hopes the study will raise awareness among parents and counselors who work with young people. "People are aware of these life events," she said, "but they are not always aware of how people are coping with them.

Labels: trauma, causes of eating disorders, stress

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