A symptom checklist to help clients reflect on symptoms of bulimia and explore whether a professional assessment may be beneficial.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as vomiting, misuse of laxatives, or excessive exercise. Drawing on DSM-5 and ICD-11 diagnostic frameworks, this symptom checklist offers clinicians and clients an accessible way to consider whether an individual’s experiences may reflect features of bulimia. It is not intended to provide a diagnosis or assess severity, but it can support early discussions about whether further evaluation is warranted.
Bulimia can often go unrecognised or be misunderstood, particularly when body weight appears to fall within a normal range. This symptom checklist helps open a structured and compassionate conversation:
For individuals experiencing cycles of binge eating and purging or compensatory behaviors.
For clients with concerns about loss of control around food, even without a formal diagnosis.
Gently raise the possibility of bulimia using the suggested therapeutic prompt.
Review the checklist with the client to identify patterns and any associated distress.
Reflect on how the client's responses align with clinical concerns or diagnostic criteria.
Use the results to guide appropriate next steps, including further assessment or psychoeducation.
Bulimia nervosa is a psychiatric condition characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating – during which individuals experience a loss of control over their eating – followed by compensatory behaviors aimed at preventing weight gain. These behaviors may include self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives or other medications, fasting, or excessive exercise. An overemphasis on body shape and weight in self-evaluation is a defining feature of the condition.
This symptom checklist is informed by both DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria. It is not intended to provide a formal diagnosis or assess severity but may support early recognition and therapeutic exploration. Clinicians can use it to validate a client’s experiences and facilitate conversations that may lead to further assessment.
