Oh, honey. Welcome, and hugs. You have just found a family of messed-up-but-getting-better people who know exactly how you feel. You are safe here and no one will judge you, because we're all going through it too. Do you feel comfortable enough to talk more about what's going on with you?

Its hard but I'm learning to accept it. I have a hard time talking about it to people face to face because I just start to cry. I feel so overwhelmed by it. Its a struggle for me everyday. I've even tried to purge before but I know that's bad for my health. I just don't know how to cope with it. I have anxiety about going to gyms or even walking out in public but I will start walking soon after my foot heals from being broken. I just hate myself for letting me get this way. Right before this happened in June 2016, I lost my children to my ex husband because I had a pain pill addiction. Which made me really skinny. I went through rehab and have been sober 13 months now but all the weight just piled on more and more.

But you see, you're already so strong - look at what you've been through in just two years, those are enormous things to have dealt with.

Maybe when you kicked the pain pill addiction (and that takes a superwoman) then food was just an easy thing to replace it. And that's perfectly understandable.

So what we know is that you're strong enough to overcome just about anything. But when you dealt with the pain pill addiction, maybe you didn't quite get to the root of the underlying problem, and it just sort of transferred itself to feed. And that's something for us to think about and talk about a little bit, as you get more comfortable sharing here. (It's way easier than face to face.)

In the meantime, can we think up a few things you can do today to move a little further on the right track? You've got the broken foot to deal with, but instead of waiting for it to heal, can you do some stretches on the floor, maybe, some gentle yoga poses to loosen up? Or use some hand weights?

And don't write off the gym. It took me a long time to go to one because I was positive that the moment I walked in the door everything would stop, everyone wold stare at me, and I'd be able to see thought bubbles over their heads saying "What's SHE doing here?" And the reality is that no one cares at all. Everyone's so focused on their own selves they don't notice anyone around them. So go do you and don't worry about that.

And if you have time, look up the poem "Phenomenal Woman" by Maya Angelou, you can find it on line. And read it out loud.

Thank you so much Katie!! I appreciate your kind words and positive feedback. I will read that poem and do some stretches today.

Hey there, I just recently joined this website and its a great way to start. I gained 70 pounds and Im starting to finally lose. Its hard eating, but I can tell you we can get over it. I still need help, and Im finding it here.

How are things going for you today?

Sorry I haven't been on lately. Been busy. I got an elliptical/bike!!! 2 in 1. I have been doing 5 miles a day for now since I'm new at it. I am struggling to not drink and that's a big deal bc of all the calories in alcohol. My situation here at home is very difficult rn. I dont have much support from my bf and that makes it harder. I honestly dont know how much longer my relationship will last of he doesn't change. He spends more time on his phone playing a basketball game when he's not working. All I want is some affection. Hugs, kisses, a smile and emotional support. I am not materialistic so he knows I don't care about him buying me things or anything like that. He just goes on and out of these moods and when he drinks sometimes he becomes verbally mean. We've been together 2 years in June.

I feel you, girl. Take care and hugs. Text me if u want to. you are more than a number on the scale.