Anorexic

[NyanNyan]

About two months ago I became anorexic. I stopped eating breakfast. I stopped eating lunch. I actually exercised and cared about how many calories I was taking in and burning. I want to stop because I know that it will hurt my body, but I get so happy when I see the number on the scale go down. The disorder has taken over my mind. I would stop, but truthfully anorexia is the only thing keeping me from killing myself. What should I do? I REALLY don't want to go to a hospital because I get homesick really easily and whenever I'm even a little lonely I start listing ways to kill myself. Anorexia was the easiest of those choices because I was killing myself while becoming "perfect".

[PureLithium]

I'd say to take charge of your life. Regain control. Right now a disease is eating away at you but you have the power to stop it as long as you want to. You can't just stop something overnight and expect it to be gone forever. You have to have the attitude and WANT to stop. You NEED to stop.

Here's how I overcame anorexia. I've been cured for 3, going on 4 years in two months. First, you need to understand and respect that you have a condition. Acknowledge it. Don't act like it's not there or that you're fine. Truth is, you're not fine. But only you can beat the monster inside you. The next step after accepting what you have is to look yourself in the mirror and actually say "I have a problem but you're no longer in control. I'm taking back my life. Right. Now." I know it sounds crazy but it's important you do this. This is a critical step in getting better because you have to reassure not only yourself, but your body that you are ready to begin the fight. You have the power now.

Create a healthy routine. It needs to incorporate exercise, eating (healthy foods), and some down time to yourself. One of the most important aspects of my recovery was down time. This was the period of time where I would think about what I wanted to accomplish and get out of my life. Did I really want to live my life like this? Constantly worrying and counting down the pounds? No. But don't get me wrong, down time isn't all about thinking about your disorder. In fact, it's a time to forget about it. This is the time where you're going to pamper yourself and regain your self respect and confidence. Paint your nails, read a couple of magazines or enjoy a book under a shaded tree. Or maybe you're the type like I was who wanted to focus on training my dog or performing community service. Pop in your favorite movie and enjoy a snack such as a smoothie or waffles (weird, right?). Down time will give you the "you time" you need to succeed. It's the time where your disorder won't have any affect on you. Down time is your time. Perhaps during this time you will be able to find a passion, a hobby. I found out I could redirect one addiction to another which was horseback riding and training. Do you know that sort of sense of accomplishment was far more rewarding than seeing the scale tip 1/2 a pound? Don't be afraid to get involved in your community either. There's Food banks, senior centers, animal shelters, etc that love teens willing to help. You could redirect what's been eating at you into a lifelong, life changing passion. You're in control of your new life. Spend it how you want to live it, not how the disease wants you to.

Returning back to the healthy routine and eating plan, you'll need to update yourself on proper weight loss techniques. Actually, don't think of it as weight loss. That's where I collapsed and lost control for four months. I was lucky to return back to recovery, some are not so fortunate. Anyways, think of it as being physically fit and healthy. As a growing young lady you'll need to make sure your body has access to vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and B-12. This will be vital in your future health. Remember, the damage you are doing now to your body will only make it harder to keep going. You might not get the chance to experience what you really want to in life. It'd be a shame if you're life was cut short due to something like this. You're so young and haven't even started your life yet. This is why it's so important to regain control. I know it's hard to ease back into an eating routine. I started off with eating a couple strawberries or peanuts. Gradually, I was able to work myself up to a mini bagel with peanut butter on it. You're going to want something that's filling and will help you last till lunch time. That will prevent snacking in between but never feel ashamed of grabbing an extra vegetable or fruit. That's always okay. Ever crave peanut butter? You're body needs the protein. Whatever cravings you have, it means your body is trying to tell you what it needs. Do your legs ever eat? You lack potassium and need to eat a banana or even better, whip up a banana smoothie with low fat vanilla yogurt and chopped up bananas. Smoothies were my life line and guide to success. They still are. Plus, who doesn't love a refreshing burst of flavor that has less than 250 calories in it?

Portion control will also be vital in your success. You can maintain a healthy weight if you eat what's necessary and get regular exercise. However, don't make exercising a habit. You have to replenish your body and you can't always do that if you're exercising nonstop. A good solid hour of exercise a day will do you good but make sure you stay hydrated!

You can do this. It's easy once you get into the swing of things. After that first day, the first week? Oh my god. You'll feel great and on-top of the world. I'm serious. You're going to go so far. Nothings stopping you. Don't let anything stop you. You've got this. You're in control and are on your way to a healthy lifestyle. The way it should be.