I am a severly overweight 22 year old who needs help. I don't think I have a problem but my husband is very mad with me. The problem is I throw up on purpose evertime I eat something I don't think I should. It is not everything just some things, like three or four times a week. I am not used to being fat as I gained this weight with illness and could not stop it. I exercise for 1.5 hours a day and try toeat healthy but I am OBSESSED. Getting rid of the bad things makes me feel like I am still in control and have will power, eventhough I don't. As my self esteem goes down the less I eat and the more I throw up when I am upset. What should I do?

Hi! I was just wondering, is your husband mad at you because you are throwing up your food or because you are a little overweight? Either way, I don't think he should be mad, but I think I can talk to you more about this if you could clarify this one point. Thanks!

He is mad because I am making myself sick. His mom was hospitalized for anorexia, and I think the whole subject angers him to no end. I would appreciate your input. Thanx

Hi jreed,
You do have a problem. Forcing yourself to purge after eating is a symptom of bulimia. There is no need to be afraid, but there is a need to be concerned. This board is great for support and to share experiences, fears, success stories, etc., but it is not a substitute for professional help. Have you considered seeing a counselor or therapist? You seem to be in the early stages of an eating disorder -- please get help before it takes over your life. Include your husband in this part of your life. He can be a great source of support for you if you make him feel like he can be part of your solution. If he is mad at you because you force yourself to throw up, it is most likely because he cares for you. Eating disorders are terribly dangerous things to play with. I am not a doctor, so I can't diagnose you. I am just someone who has been there.

If you aren't ready to take the step to speak to a doctor or therapist, it's ok. I do think that you should consider it though. No matter what you choose to do, hang around this board! I think that you'll find everyone really supportive and a great source of information. There are no stupid questions here!

I do have a question for you though...if you throw up after eating certain things, why don't you think you have a problem? What would you consider "a problem"? I'm just asking to see what your feelings are. Please take care of yourself! Bulimia can be terribly dangerous.

it's just myth that you have to be skinny to have an ED. It sounds like you have the start of bulimia, but it doesn't need to be this way. if you are medically overweight there are lots of things you can do. Why not have a chat with your doctoer and see what he/she has to say that might help you.
Either way, I hope you get over this.
Lots of love,
Katie xxx

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Don't dream the dream, be the dream.

I don't think it is a problem because it is only sometimes and I am not small I am very large. I know I probably sound ignorant, but that is how I feel inside. I feel ugly when I eat bad, not when I eat well.