8 signs your loved one may be hiding bulimia

Bulimia nervosa is often called a 'hidden' eating disorder for a reason - those struggling with it usually go to extreme lengths to keep their behaviours secret. Even if everything seems fine on the surface, the pain and shame underneath can be overwhelming. The truth is, many people with bulimia don’t look like they need help - yet, the damage is very real, and they deserve the right support to heal.

If you’re reading this and suspect that you or someone close to you might be battling bulimia, you’re not alone - and this is exactly the kind of moment where the right help can change everything. Pay close attention to these eight signs that bulimia may be happening behind closed doors.

1. Frequent bathroom breaks right after meals

Constantly heading to the bathroom right after eating? This could be a sign that purging is happening - whether through vomiting or other methods like laxatives. People often try to mask this by running water or staying in the bathroom longer than usual. It’s one of those subtle but powerful red flags that something is off.

2. Weight fluctuations or 'normal' weight with extreme behaviours

Anyone at any body size can be struggling with an eating disorder. With bulimia, weight can stay within a 'normal' range, making it harder to detect. But don’t let this fool you - this doesn’t mean everything is OK. If there are constant fluctuations or an obsession with maintaining weight despite unhealthy behaviours, it’s a warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored.

3. Obsessive focus on body image and dieting

If every conversation comes back to weight, food or the latest diet trend, that’s a major red flag. Even if someone appears to eat normally around others, they might be obsessively worrying about food and their body in secret. The constant need for reassurance about appearance is often a sign that bulimia is lurking beneath the surface.

4. Signs of binge eating

Is food disappearing quickly? Are there wrappers or containers hidden away? These can be signs of binging episodes that are happening in private. The shame that follows a binge often leads to purging - and it’s a dangerous cycle that’s easy to hide but hard to break.

5. Unexplained dental issues or throat problems

Repeated vomiting causes physical damage - like sore throats, swollen glands, or dental problems from stomach acid coming up into the mouth. If you notice frequent complaints about tooth sensitivity or someone becomes self-conscious about their teeth, it might not be just a dental issue - there could be something much deeper going on.

6. Overuse of laxatives or diet pills

Laxatives, diuretics, and diet pills are common tools used in purging. If you notice that someone is frequently using these products, or constantly talking about needing them to 'stay in control', it’s a huge indicator that their relationship with food and their body is unhealthy.

7. Strange eating habits or secretive behaviour around food

Does someone act differently around food? Skipping meals, eating very little in public, or bingeing in private are all behaviours to watch for. People hiding bulimia often try to maintain an appearance of control while struggling behind the scenes.

8. Mood swings, anxiety or depression

Bulimia takes a massive emotional toll, often leading to severe mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal from loved ones. The cycle of binging and purging can leave someone feeling exhausted, anxious, and out of control - and it shows up in their mood.

The next step: Getting help

If these signs feel all too familiar, it’s time to take action. Whether it’s you or someone you care about, bulimia is a battle no one should fight alone. And while it might feel scary to take that first step, you don’t have to figure this out on your own.

The support you (or your loved one) need is out there - and it starts with reaching out. Don’t wait. Let’s take that first step toward healing today.