Ready for a Change

Hey, Everyone
I am currently a post-secondary student who is studying Behavioural Science. My strengths are English, Science, History and Art...Math will always be the enemy. I am also presently a tutor and a Recreational Leader for a youth program. My interests are music, history, philosophy, and, art.

This is my weight history:
-All throughout my childhood I had always been chubby. My family is known for being tall and built like 'brick **** houses' which is awesome if you are male, but not so cute as a female.
-When I was around 12 or 13 years old, I became very involved with Karate and loss a substantial amount of weight, going from a size 16 to a size 14.
-I maintained this weight until I was 16 years old. I had managed through unhealthy food portion management and exercise to lose approximately 60 pounds.
-At the age of 18 (only a few months before my 19th birthday) I became very ill and was unable to eat for almost a month and a half due to damage to my liver. Unfortunately, when I recovered, I could eat whatever I wanted but still was not permitted to due any physical activity or moderate lifting for 2-3months. I was told after this period that any physical activity I wanted to do I would have to get approved by my doctor.
-Currently 20 years old, I have ballooned due to unhealthy food choices (welcome to college) and inactivity and have gained 80 pounds. I am back to wearing 16 sized jeans and I feel worse about myself physically and mentally than ever. I love running and walking, but absolutely hate weights.

Side Notes:
-When I was ill, I was told that I could live off of ginger ale and power-ade. I now find power-ade disgusting, but drink pop regularly.
-I eat when I am stressed about school, personal life or am just plain upset. I feel like I am at a loss for control over my eating habits and how I use food as a way of coping.
-The only time I have felt confident about my body was during christmas holiday I was in the city and I was approached and asked to do modelling. It turned out to be a more serious commitment than I was ready for and I chose not to pursue it. Even with that type of recognition, the satisfaction of my appearance only lasted for a few weeks.
- My family is not supportive what-so-ever and that is why I have found this site.
-Since I have been in college I will average around 4-6 hours at the gym/week and I have had no difference.

Goal:
I have set my goal for losing 80 pounds. I presently sit at 260 pounds and I after checking I have discovered that a healthy weight for a female of 6'1 is 180 pounds.