Expert: Diana - 11/8/2003

Question
Hi Diana,
i already asked questions to experts in this category, but today i found your profile and i thought that your experience could help me.
I've suffered from eating disorders for many years.
Sometimes i eat a lot and i throw up, sometimes i eat a lot and i dont throw up.
Sometimes i dont eat at all.
Sometimes i exercise for 2 hours every day, sometimes i only stay sitting on my armchair for 2 months.
It all depends on whether im feeling good or depressed.
It's so hard, i'm so tired.
You're right, it is a daily damn struggle.
I'm glad you are getting out of it.
Where did you find your strength?
And have you ever talked to a doctor about your problems?
If so, what kind of questions did they ask you and what aspects of your life did they focus on?
Thanks a lot in advance for your attention.
Please don't write my name.

Answer
Hi Dear,
There is no denying that you are suffering from an eating disorder, and aside from that, you are depressed.
The first thing you should do, is get help for your depression. Don't push it off, get help today. Depression is very common, and has great results when treated.

Now to your questions:
“Where did you find your strength?”
-Well I had no strength left in my body for this monstrous disorder, and so I decided that I'd rather be free than suffer for another day. I used more willpower than I ever thought I possessed.
“And have you ever talked to a doctor about your problems?”
-No I have not, although countless times I wished that I had the courage too.

If you have a Doctor you feel comfortable discussing stuff with, please do so. You'll do yourself a great favour.

I have some questions for you:
-Is there a certain time of the day/month when your disorder is the worst? (ex: evenings/before your period)
-Is there a specific place that triggers you? (ex: parties, gatherings)
-Does it get worst when you are around certain people? (friends, parents etc.)

I advise you to get professional help. You don't deserve to suffer for another day.
A good way to distract yourself, and get better is keep yourself busy alot. Take extra classes, do sports, volunteer, visit sick people etc.

People suffering from an eating disorder, don't have it easy. Don't give up, life does get better. You can do it.

Keep me updated,
Diana