What is indicated by the unnecessary use of vomit and laxatives by a patient concerned about their weight?

Study for the Swift River Mental Health Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The indication of unnecessary use of vomit and laxatives by a patient with concerns about their weight points to bulimia nervosa. This eating disorder is characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by behaviors aimed at preventing weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive use of laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise. The focus on weight and body image is a significant aspect of bulimia, and the behaviors demonstrate an unhealthy coping mechanism to control weight and mitigate feelings of guilt associated with eating.

In the context of the other options, major depressive disorder can involve changes in appetite and weight but does not typically manifest through the specific cycle of bingeing and purging behaviors seen in bulimia. Catatonia refers to a state of psycho-motor immobility or behavioral abnormality, which is not related to weight concerns. Anxiety disorders may involve concerns about health and body image, but they do not usually lead to the specific actions of vomiting and laxative use as a primary symptom. Thus, the behaviors described are clearly aligned with bulimia nervosa, making this answer the most appropriate choice.

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