Faced with the marketed image of the waif-like model, many women have become obsessed with their weight and food has become a secret form of self-punishment. The forms this problem may take are many: obsessional dieting, compulsive eating, bingeing and vomiting or anorexia. Aiming the advice directly at the sufferer, this work examines the different problems that may bring about such behaviour, enabling the sufferer to understand the emotional meaning behind their eating disorder and begin the journey to recovery. The text covers both traditional and feminist ideas about sexuality and society, women's relationships with their mothers, partners and friends, and women's conflicts about success and competition. It also contains practical advice on where to seek help and how to help yourself overcome an eating disorder.