What indicates the psychological distress associated with Bulimia Nervosa?

Binge eating behavior is a hallmark of Bulimia Nervosa, reflecting the psychological distress that individuals experience. This disorder is characterized by episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often followed by feelings of shame, guilt, or loss of control. This cycle of binge eating and subsequent compensatory behaviors—such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or fasting—serves as a coping mechanism for underlying emotional issues, such as anxiety or depression.

In contrast, while bodyweight fluctuations can occur and are often associated with Bulimia Nervosa, they do not directly indicate the psychological distress the individual faces. Extreme dietary restriction is more characteristic of Anorexia Nervosa rather than Bulimia, making it less relevant in this context. Social avoidance may be a consequence of the shame or embarrassment felt about one's eating behaviors, but it is not as central to the diagnosis as the binge eating itself. Therefore, binge eating behavior is the most direct indication of the psychological distress tied to Bulimia Nervosa.