Anorexia/Eating Disorders/Weird eating habits?

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Question
I find myself fearing to try new foods. To the point where I'll cry because people are pressuring me into it.
And if I do find that I have to try something and i agree to try it, most likely I be sick afterwards and don't eat for days.
At the moment, there are few foods that I eat. e.g. meats, potatoes, eggs and bread.
My diet being this limited is damaging my health, I have a bmi of 26, but it is also damaging my mental health by from the frustration I have when confronted with something.
I would really like to know how to get over this, or just to get things to a level where I can eat some different foods.

Answer
Hi Jesse-
It sounds like you are really struggling emotionally and physically and I think it is time to get some skilled professional help.  You may not feel like it is necessary but it is and the sooner you get the right help the better.  I would start with a therapist who has a specialty with eating disorders and anxiety.  You may also need to see a nutritionist who can help you make sure that you are getting your needed proteins and vitamins.  Please consider getting help now Jesse.  I wish you the best of luck and please keep in mind that it can get better.
Take Care,
Dr. Joanna Lhulier

Anorexia/Eating Disorders

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Joanna Lhulier, Psy.D.

Expertise

I can answer several different types of questions about eating disorders, and how to deal with them. I can help figure out how to determine whether an individual needs professional help; how to choose what type of treatment may be most effective (i.e. therapist, nutritionist, psychiatrist or combination). I can give information about what a person can do to avoid relapse which would include an explanation regarding how to identify and avoid triggers and give ideas about where to get help in person and online. I can also give advice to concerned family members or friends. Perhaps most importantly, I can help increase self-understanding and acceptance.

Experience

I have been in private practice for seven years. My specialty is working with individuals struggling with eating disorders and/or body image issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families.

Organizations
The American Psychological Association Eating Disorders Hope Division 39 of APA (Psychoanalytic Psychology)

Publications
I have published a paper about training in the Psychoanalytic Psychology journal which is sponsored by the American Psychological Association. My writing and presentation interests include exploring topics such as loneliness, the learning process, and the benefits of mindfulness meditation.

Education/Credentials
I have earned a doctorate in Professional Psychology from the George Washington University (2001). I obtained my Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University (1997).

Awards and Honors
I serve as a member of the Clinical Supervisory Faculty for The George Washington University's Professional Psychology Doctoral Program. I am also an adjunct professor in Argosy University's Professional Psychology Doctoral Program.

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