[XOrlando]

Hey everyone! My name is Orlando. I'm 23 years old, from New Haven, CT. I've put on some weight over the summer and I feel very self-concious about it, my boyfriend broke up with me because of my body. :/ I don't want to win him back but I'm unhappy with my body.

My weight has always been an issue for me, I think about it every single day. I want to look good and feel good.

Back when I was 18, I went through a drastic weight-loss, I went from 252lbs to 187lbs (8 months) and I felt AMAZING. However, I started college and then worked a lot and barely made time for the gym. I became very overwhelmed and developed anxiety and depression. Being overweight isn't helping either.

I graduated this past may and I will be starting my new job (a teaching job) so hopefully I'll have time for me and to lose weight and reach my goal. My ultimate goal is 165 but I want to take it easy at first.

Any words of encouragement would be appreciated because I don't feel motivated. I go to the gym somedays and some I just don't even wanna walk in.

[Jacqui_D]

Hi Orlando! I'm glad you've joined us because you'll get lots of support here! I suffer from anxiety and depression too, but what I've found is that diet affects mood much more than I ever realized. I think if you can start eating healthy, whether or not you find time for the gym as much as you'd like, it will help tremendously. And of course, exercise is also wonderful for mood since it gets your endorphins going. Keep remembering how wonderful you felt at 187 lbs because you can be back there in a very short amount of time! I started at 220 in May and already I am down 30 lbs (and not on some crazy fad diet, but just watching carbs and exercising) and I am almost twice your age, so if I can do it, so can you! on graduating and starting a new teaching job! You have so much to look forward to! And now is the perfect time to take control of your physical and mental health! Good luck! You got this!

[LesGetFit]

Welcome, Orlando!

I am new here, too. Congrats on all you've accomplished and good luck on your weight loss journey!

[Jacqui_D]

LesGetFit, to you also! Great job on the walking and healthy eating! Keep it up!

[XOrlando]

Thank you! You're very kind! I'm sure I'll find the right amount of support on this website!