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Question
I recently read up on body dismorphic disorder and I suspect I have it, along with some bulemic tendencies, but I really don't want to and would do anything to feel sane again. Is there anything I can do to help see myself realistically? I might be fat and unattractive, but then again I might not be, and I just wish there was some way to know so that I could stop worrying about it. I'm really not a vain person, I don't wear makeup, I try to be a non-consumer and buy all my clothes at thrift shops, and as an artist I'm generally covered in paint...but this is something I just can't seem to get past. If you have any suggestions I'd appreciate it, thanks for your time,
Hope
You sound like an independent thinker. An individual who is creative and strong. So, when BDD manifests and bulimic symptoms (probably overeating to the point of discomfort, most likely in the late afternoon/evenings) it's a deeper issue going on underneath the psyche you know and have outlets for.
You may have been underappreciated as a youth or even suffered emotional, mental or physical abuses.
I can say over and over that you should treat yourself as an artwork and be proud of who you are for your uniqueness, for your contribution to the world rather than the size you wear. I can preach until cows sprout wings, but until the root of this is uncovered, until the monster is named and called out - it's all temporary.
The BDD might resolve with some effort, but unless the cause is beaten, it will just manifest in some other manner.
I think you already know all this too. You sound like a pretty insightful lady.
www.GetTheReal.info
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Answers by Expert:
Reverend Abbott
Expertise
I have lived it and survived it. I know every excuse, reason, thought, feeling and rationalization - and I'm going to be very honest in my advice.
Experience
I've lost (& gained)HUNDREDS of lbs over a lifetime, more than 30 years of "professional dieting". Presently a counselor for sufferers of eating disorders, a nutritional advisor and spiritual counselor (Reverend,doctor); I've been on every diet there is and used the most bizarre weight loss products you can imagine. I am FORMERLY obese, anorexic (several times), bulimic MOST of the time - and maintaining size 4, with no gimmicks, devices, programs, pills or supplements.
I currently investigate the diet industry on behalf of consumers who do not need to be ripped off while struggling to be healthy. I WILL expose them all and I WON'T be intimidated, bullied or bought. My advice is for cost-free options. I have nothing whatsoever to gain from my recommendation(s). I make no money from my website and I sell, promote, endorse NO diet/health products, programs or devices. You'll also never see me on the receiving end of a hidden camera report...but you can be assured, I won't quit until I've exposed those who are out to take advantage of you.
It's a matter of choices. We need to stop complicating things.
Degrees & Certifications:
I'm an ordained minister (Reverend, doctor) spiritual/living/behavior counselor.
I have a medical education and management background (with college). Through early 90's (until retirement) Who's Who Of American Women; Who's Who On the East Coast; Who's Who Among Emerging American Leaders; Who's Who Of Intellectuals - all for "outstanding performance in (my) field".
Organizations
While active (through the 1980's), included in Who's Who Of American Women; Who's Who On the East Coast; Who's Who Among Emerging American Leaders; Who's Who Of Intellectuals - all for "outstanding performance in (my) field".
Education/Credentials
Ordained Minister; phlebotomist; medical information researcher for court cases
Awards and Honors
Doctorate of Divinity
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