eating disorder/food and body issues

[likeabird]

For 7 years now I have been struggling with eating disorder thoughts. It has changed forms over the years and my shape has changed to each end, yet my mind remains similar. I feel like my thoughts just go around in circles all day. Constantly thinking about food, what I should eat, how to not eat so much, how to change my body, how to get some discipline, how to not think about food or my body. I have learned to live with it, but it has come to my attention recently that this may not be normal, and I am considering getting some more support. It is just a little frustrating as I have tried that in the past and yet still struggle. I guess it takes time.

I find that I isolate myself from other people and avoid any social events and even have been avoiding work. I feel embarrassed to be seen. I feel that I don't belong in this body. I feel like I need to lose weight in order to be comfortable enough to live. But I also know from experience that even when I lose weight I still feel the same way as I did. It's frustrating to look back on and I wish I could go back and shake myself so I could realise that I was healthy and looked good at the time. 

So, I guess where I'm at is just trying to feel comfortable around food, around people, and in my own skin. 

If you have any advice, I am all ears.

Thank you in advance 🙂

[Eden1919]

@likeabird  i wish i had something useful to say but i struggle greatly with similar issues and all i can say at the moment is that you are not alone at all there are many others out there who share your struggle. idk if you have tried contacting them but some people find the butterfly foundation helpful and they might be able to tell you if there are any support groups in your area if you are interested in that kind of thing. again sorry i am not much help. 

[likeabird]

Thank you for your reply, it sure helps to know we aren't alone. I will try contacting them. Thank you

[Ali11]

Hi @likeabird, we echo @Eden1919 in saying you aren't alone in those feelings. Eden1919 provides details of a great resource and it's so great that you recognise that you need some additional help. Has there been a time (that you can think of) when you weren't thinking about food or weight? What were you doing at that time?  

[BlueBay]

Hi @likeabird @Eden1919 @Ali11 

im struggling with all of thst. I have recently contacted butterfly foundation and they have been great. They emailed me and we communicate weekly via email. 

[Ali11]

That's fantastic @BlueBay, we're so glad to hear that they've been a helpful resource. Do you have any tips for @likeabird regarding contacting them?

[BlueBay]

Hi @likeabird  i would look up butterfly foundation. Lots to read up on. I emailed them and I am receiving advice. 

I do understand what you’re saying. It’s a difficult road. 

Happy to chst with you anytime. ❤️❤️

[kk3]

@likeabird Thankyou for creating this discussion, I feel similar with thoughts/ behaviours worsening 10 years ago. hasn't been until a week ago i had gotten courage mentioning a referral that specialises with eating and body issues. I'm extremely anxious going to the first appointment next week. I hope everything works out for you and all the best. 🙂