In Recovery -- Getting Fit

xangelasusana · January 2016

Hi everyone!

I'm returning to MyFitnessPal after a long period of not being here due to personal problems that arose during my first use of this site. During my first use of this site, my severe negative body image resulted in me developing unhealthy habits and relationships with food that, had I continued, would have led me deep down a dark path of anorexia. Friends noticed my problems and helped coach me away from that path. I've since then also been diagnosed with anxiety and depression and have been learning to control that through medication and therapy. I'm a little scared about the supposed weight gain linked to Zoloft (one of the two meds that I'm on) and would like to eventually wean myself off of that, though I do like how I've been feeling since starting a healthier lifestyle and accepting my struggles with mental health.

I have since put on much of the weight that I lost and would like to lose it once again, but not the same way I did previously. I'm much more accepting and body positive now and instead of wanting to be "thin," I want to be "fit," meaning, I'm enjoying lifting and exercising for the sake of how it makes me feel, physically and emotionally -- not because I want to burn calories. I'm also eating healthier foods and learning to eat more mindfully so that I enjoy the nourishment that I'm receiving from the food I'm taking in -- not criticizing my food choices based on their caloric value. I'm a first year medical student and would like to live a healthy lifestyle so that I can maintain my health throughout school, residency, and in my future practice.

I guess I'm looking for friends who are interested in joining me on the journey of self acceptance and fitness. If you're interested, send me a message, comment below, or share your own stories of body image issues and body positivity.

SoulOfRusalka · January 2016

Hi! I've struggled with depression and anxiety too, as well as various eating disorders. Friend me if you like!

kimhall01 · January 2016

I too struggle with poor body image and when dieting tend to get neurotic and obsessive. A recent diagnosis of fibromyalgia has instigated another round of depression and anxiety. My depression is further influenced by a 10 pound weight gain. That may sound trivial to some but I worked very hard the last 2 years to lose 50 pounds and get fit. I had maintained my goal until the diagnosis 6 months ago.
I hate who I am as it is...constantly in pain...relying on Meds and too often alcohol to cope. I used to enjoy some wine on the weekends....now it's every week night that ends in Y.
Feel free to friend me too...perhaps we can encourage each other to stay focused and make the changes we need to in order to be fit and happy; balanced on the inside and out ❤️

Northerncyclist234 · January 2016

Hello first off congrats on your journey so far! you have made wonderful progress! I also have suffered/still suffer from several different eating disorders and am also working on becoming more fit. Feel free to add me so that we can support each other on our journeys to healthier lives

Nell8i8 · January 2016

I'm glad to hear your story and that you feel healthy and that you were surrounded by loved ones through your struggle. If you keep to a plan and stay focused I'm sure you will reach your goal in a healthy way.

olympian41 · February 2016

I could have written your post. I'm now on zoloft and struggle with the fear that the drug is causing additional weight gain which makes me heavier, which makes me more depressed, which makes me want to go off of the medication that actually helps me feel better. It's a really stupid cycle.

Feel free to friend me

In Recovery -- Getting Fit

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