When defining what it means to be anorexic or bulimic, the general population may not know the difference between the two. The concept of eating during bulimia, unlike anorexia, is very different; however the end results of both are undoubtedly similar. Bulimia nervosa is the compulsive act of binge eating, or gorging on large quantities of food at one time. The person is able to consume approximately “3,000 to 5,000 calories in a short hour” (Segal & Smith, 2014). Once the binge eating episode ends, the person immediately resorts to self-induced vomiting, taking laxatives or intensive physical exercises for fear of gaining weight. Historically, bulimia has not always been seen as a disorder equivalent to having an unhealthy habit; in reality it was the exact opposite of how society sees it today. For the ancient Romans, vomiting after a meal was quite normal as it was used to “make room for further feasting” (Williams, 2011). Eating large quantities of food in those days meant wealth; therefore, the act of purge was linked to that wealth of status. Other cultures would use purgation as a remedy for many illnesses as it was natural to assume that human illnesses came from the food eaten (Williams, 2011). Therefore, the intentionality of these acts was related to medicine and would help relieve pain and illness. However, these reasons are non-existent and today's modern view of bulimia is not seen as beneficial in any way. The motivation for which the bulimic population struggles is nothing other than the reason to stay thin. Since the 1980s, this has been a growing dilemma for both the United States and Europe. There is no direct cause for this mental disorder, but rather a combination of factors that increase… half of the document… the length of time the person suffers from bulimia without treatment is also a factor that drives action. Other aspects are mental and/or health comorbidities caused by or existing before bulimia, such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. Therefore, each case is unique and treatment varies. Initial therapy begins with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); for bulimia in particular, this most likely includes “nutritional counseling to change certain behaviors and thought patterns” (Segal & Smith, 2014). This targets the root of the problem and helps reshape the person's way of thinking in a healthier way. Medicines for treating depression also help in treatment; they help “reduce binge-purge cycles” (Segal & Smith, 2014). Treatment for bulimia can last more than a year, depending on environmental factors and the client's dedication during the course.