New... Kind of...
Hello forum,
I used to come here, back before I had a job and life went crazy. I frequented a few of the boards, mostly lurking around. As background, I have PTSD and I gained 80 lbs in one year on a psych med. I also was engaged last time I was here.
Well, since my last visit, I went to an all-time high weight of 268 lbs, developed type-2 diabetes with an a1c of about 7.4, went on metformin and simvastatin, decided to stop my psychiatric medication (more on that below), and completely changed my diet.
Everything started changing in 2009. I was changing. I had started to really get much healthier, emotionally, and I told my psychiatrist that I wanted to try managing without meds. His response was, "Well, I can't make you take your medication. But if you don't take it, you will crash and burn and end up back in the hospital at square one!" Boy, that really made my mind up!
I'm still waiting for the crash-and-burn to happen, too.
Something DID change, though, about two months after I SLOWLY weaned myself off the meds. One day, I went and got a foot-long Subway Club. I never had any problems packing away a whole sandwich in a sitting, and feeling hungry after for that matter. But halfway through the sandwich, something strange happened. I felt an odd sensation. I felt FULL. I hadn't felt that sensation in eight years. A lightbulb went off.
Well, I now weigh 240 pounds, which is nine less than in 2008 and four more than in November (I gained nine pounds that month!). My last a1c was 6.2 (I'm having it tested again on Monday). I eat mostly veggies and whole grains, with a bit of fruit, nuts and meats thrown in. I am losing, but very slowly. With the 28 lb difference and some physical therapy to help with my problem knees, I have started walking as exercise.
I hardly ever experience panic symptoms anymore. The last mild flashback I experienced was in July of last year (2010). I have patched many of the problems I've had with various family members. I have connected with God again.
I have considered bariatric surgery, but am leaning toward diet and exercise. I have unique issues with my knees, but I think I will be able to lose more weight if I take exercise slow and keep eating healthily. And that is why I'm back. I think support from others in similar boats can help in this process. And I'm sure it can't hurt.
So, I will be around. Have a great night/morning!
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It has been VERY busy for me this week!! Hope I'll be around more soon.
