Eating Disorders:

[katcarasella]

I just found out I have an eating disorder It started out with not being able to eat when I was upset or stressed. Now this Dr. says I don't eat because I feel eating is the only thing I can control in my life. Hmmm very interesting. What do you guys think, ever heard of anything like this before? I've gone from a size 12 to a size 6 in one year.

[Ponyup]

It's possible, eating disorders are usually not about losing weight. When I get upset I don't feel like eating either. My s-i-l who has a masters in psychology told me i was getting anxious about being anxious. I was so nervous about not eating that it was making me more anxious & unable to eat. She told me to stop worring about. Don't think about it if I'm hungry eat, if i'm not don't & it did help. However my not eating periods would only last a week or so & were brought on by a particular circumstance. I think that sort of weight lose in a year is something to be concerned about. What does your dr. recommend for treatment?

[katcarasella]

He recommends extensive therapy. I've got to think about this, I'm sure I can fix it if I put my mind to it. You're right though, I do get anxious just thinking about it.
Thanks

[DianaB]

With all of the things that's been going on in your life the last year it certainly won't hurt to talk to a counselor. Stress can do so many things to you.

[Janet]

I'm with Diana on this one. Stress can do so many harmful things to our mind and body. I'd at least check with a counselor and see what they say. Don't let yourself get too thin and make yourself sick...we need you here.

I'm sorry you're going through a stressful time!

Not something I usually talk about, but when I was a freshman in high school I had eating issues. I made myself throw up. I found out later that it was for the reason you described, it was the one thing I could control. It made a lot of sense to me. I think that's exactly what is going on with you. Stress really goes that way or the other though. People either don't eat for the control reasons, or they eat more because it comforts them. Food is instant gratification, especially sweet food. It's like people that drink. It makes them feel better in the moment because they feel so cruddy, but it doesn't solve the overall problem at all. But you could have some type of depression as well that might be the reason. Depression causes you to lose interest in things, and that includes food. I would maybe check into that as well.

I hope things get better for you!

[HALEY]

Originally Posted by katcarasella

I just found out I have an eating disorder It started out with not being able to eat when I was upset or stressed. Now this Dr. says I don't eat because I feel eating is the only thing I can control in my life. Hmmm very interesting. What do you guys think, ever heard of anything like this before? I've gone from a size 12 to a size 6 in one year.

Wow girl, you sound like me when i am stressed i don't eat, i can go days without eatting! Maybe that is my problem too..

[Gina]

Kathy , Judy had a good suggestion, please go speak to someone or get into a group. You have been through so much this year, no one is invincible. It's ok to ask for help, come on girl we need you to be strong..

[katcarasella]

Thanks Gina, I am finally getting the help I need, and 4WT has been greatly responsible for that. I thank God for finding you Ladies.

The first step to recovery is realizing there is a problem! Sending lots of hugs your way! ED's can be very hard things to overcome, but it is so very important that you try! I'm glad you are getting help now ! I dealt with eating "issues" for a while, which I think were brought on also for the desire for a sense of some sort of control in my life... During a very stressful time I lost over 30 lbs in one month... I don't even want to mention some of the crazy things I used to do out of self disdain. Unfortunately, my 'issues" are to blame for my now shot metabolism.
Anyway, today I am okay and although I could stand to actually lose a few pounds these days, I know I am more healthy and happy now than back then. Thankfully, God is good! I'll be praying for you!

[Dobie]

I have struggled with bulemia since I was a teenagerr - it's much worse during stressful times. Please get into counseling asap - the worst mistake people make is allow it to be a "hidden disease" and try to fight it on their own.