DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for bulimia nervosa
Diagnostic criteria
Recurrent episodes of binge eating, in a discrete period of time (within any 2-hour period), an amount of food that is definitely larger than what most individuals would eat in a similar period of time under similar circumstances
A sense of lack of control over eating during the binge eating episode (a feeling that one cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating)
Recurrent inappropriate compensatory behaviors in order to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications, fasting, or excessive exercise
The binge eating and inappropriate compensatory behaviors both occur, on average, at least once a week for 3 months
Self-evaluation is unduly influenced by body shape and weight
The disturbance does not occur exclusively during episodes of anorexia nervosa
Frequency of inappropriate compensatory behaviors (episodes/week)
1-3
4-7
8-13
≥ 14
Remission
After full criteria were previously met, some, but not all, of the criteria have been met for a sustained period of time.
After full criteria were previously met, none of the criteria have been met for a sustained period of time.
Diagnostic criteria not met
Reference
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR™). APA. 2022.
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