New dieter from NY

Hi. My name is Angela. I have been a roller coaster dieter since my teens and am now 30 years old. I have to find a way to lose weight in a healthier way so that I can maintain my weight loss for years to come. I have a goal set to reach 135 lbs which is nearly half my body weight. I dont know how I spiraled out of control so badly but I am desperate for any change. I am also new to this site so I dont know my way around yet? Is there a way to stay in contact with other users?

~Angela