Eating disorders part of a vicious cycle

Dr. Wallace: I recently read your column on anorexia nervosa and bulimia. You have done a great service by educating the public and sufferers about the psychological and physical problems involved. However, you did not include in that article any reference to compulsive overeating, another eating disorder.

In this case, food is also the obsession; however, the victim overindulges in food as does the bulimic and, contrary to the actions of the compulsively thin person suffering from anorexia, severe depression is also inherent.

There is more to overeating than gluttony. Sufferers use the temporary satisfaction from food to soothe their inner turmoil. Unfortunately, the turmoil is only heightened.

Overeaters far outnumber those suffering from bulimia and anorexia - just look around you. I am a compulsive overeater, and am very fortunate to have come to terms with the fact before I suffered complete emotional imbalance and obesity. I, too, have binged (wild binges like the bulimic) with the terrible fear of being out of control, and I have faced the consequences of weight gain, which continues to devastate selfimage.

It is an exhausting fight, a vicious cycle — overeating, bingeing, dieting. It is not lack of willpower, but an obsession. I am a member of Overeaters Anonymous and have found that I am not alone. — Anonymous, Springfield, Ill.

Anonymous: Overeaters Anonymous is a marvelous nonprofit organization that cares about overeaters and does something positive to help. I have mentioned OA several times in the column and will continue to promote it. Those teens interested in OA should check their local telephone book for the nearest office. The organization is located throughout the United States and Canada.

Dr. Wallace: Lately, someone has been breaking into student lockers and stealing things. Sometimes I leave expensive things in my locker and I would be very upset if they were stolen. But if they were, would the school be responsible to reimburse me for my loss? I think they should. — Sara, Anaheim, Calif.

Sara: As a former high school principal in nearby Garden Grove, I have practical experience on this subject. My advice is not to leave your valuables in your school locker.

The school district provides you with a locker that you can use or not - it’s your decision. The school district is not responsible for anything that winds up missing from the locker. In light of the fact that someone is breaking into lockers at your school, you should not consider this a safe storage place! Hold onto your valuables, or leave them at home.

Dr. Wallace: i’m 18 and the guy I’m dating is 20. Sometimes I think I want him to be my husband, and other times I catch myself flirting with other guys when he’s not around. Is this normal or am I not yet ready to even consider marriage to this guy? — Nameless, Sidney, Ohio.

Nameless: When you find your future husband, you won’t want to flirt with any other guy!