Ashlee

Hey, Caroline.

I know you don’t think you’re anorexic, and I can hardly tell you that you are as that’s not up to me. I do, however, think you have issues with food – and you’ve admitted that yourself before.

I don’t think it’s fair of your counsellor to threaten to tell your Dad... I was always under the impression that issues such as these were confidential, and could only be discussed with your parents if your life was at a serious risk. You may want to just go and discuss this with your counsellor and explain that this wouldn’t help matters at all – as it most likely won’t! There’s nothing worse than feeling out of control of your life.

I’m not saying ‘don’t tell your Dad’. In fact, it’s probably a good idea! From what I gather from the way you’ve spoken about him in the past, you two are very close. If you wish to, talk to your counsellor and say that YOU will talk to him when YOU feel ready.

You have to remember, Caroline, that you don’t have to be 30 pounds underweight in order to have a serious illness such as anorexia. I know it really seams as though it is, but anorexia really isn’t about weight at all, it’s about control and many underlying issues that are getting you into this state.

I’m sorry so much of your family isn’t around right now... it’s the same for me actually! I guess us two just have to stick together, huh? We’ll live!

I know you're struggling but the sooner you come to terms with the fact that you have ‘food’ and ‘weight’ issues, the better! If someone else was struggling with their self esteem and worrying about their weight day in and day out, even if they weren’t seriously underweight, YOU’D want them to get help, wouldn’t you? You would, because you wouldn’t want them to suffer any longer than they already have, and you’d want what’s best for them! (Look at me, putting all these words in your mouth! ) Now you need to start treating yourself with that same respect. Give yourself a break sometimes, okay?

Oh, and your welcome for that other thread... I was just wondering where everyone had run off to, that’s all!

Take care and good luck with everything!

Love,
Ashlee

[This message has been edited by Ashlee (edited 07-27-2002).]