Thanks for all of the support. I know I'll love it here.

Hello! I'm around your age (I'm 18) and I can definitely relate to everything you said. I also struggle with depression and low self-esteem. I was never made fun of by the people around me, but I made up for it by tormenting myself. I can't imagine how much more painful it would have been if other people had contributed to it.

I hope you can find the support you're looking for here.... everyone is very helpful and gives really great advice. Seeing so many success stories really makes it easier for me to get motivated, so I hope it has the same effect on you.

Best of luck with your goals!

I have definitely learned the hard way that doing things alone is too much .. see, usually I am very independent. With my weight, however, I need a little encouragement from somewhere! This looks like a great place to find it.

I also am a Curves member! LOVE it!!

Hey!! Welcome to 3fc and try to forget what people have said about you just focus about what you have to say about yourself and what you can do to make yourself better. Only you can change yourself and control your own body, so I'm glad you are taking steps to success. I'm a noob myself and what I just said is basically what I felt I have learned from my fellow 3fc members they all have been a great help to me and I know you are definitely in the right place for support because the people here have made me believe that I can lead a healthy new lifestyle that I can commit to. If you ever need anyone to chat to I'm open up for chat just private message me I'll be happy if I get a message from you cause the more friends I make on here, the more I feel accountable and so will you =) Have fun and good luck!

Congratulations on your new start! Good for you to do it now. I am 33, and have been a slightly chubby to obese person since I was younger. I had leaner times when I lost "baby fat".....then puberty hit. It was hips, thighs and breasts......oh my!

I have struggled for a long time too with self confidence. I have been put down plenty of times in the past also. People suck, and are dumb is the conclusion I come to. I hear on a daily basis the doctors and nurses I work with making derogatory comments about our more overweight patients......and they do it right in front of me. It pisses me off and makes me want to treat those patients with even more respect.

Be strong.....and be proud of who you are, and for taking on this journey! That is amazing that you were able to make a change. And even the smallest things count.

As other posters said, you are beautiful. Remember that every day. Think of the good things you can offer to friends and others around you. Most importantly, think of the things you can offer yourself.....love, self respect, encouragment and understanding.

I have come along way in the last 8 years......and have done some back sliding from time to time. But, learning to respect me.....and finally realize the things I am capable of,and the good I can do....it was a great experience. I hope you are able to do the same.

Good luck!

((hugs))

you made a few great first steps. this is an awesome support group and joining curves will help keep you accountable! keep on posting!

Welcome to 3FC! I'm glad you're here! Surf around and settle in. We have forums based on age, eating plan, exercise & more!

Be sure to check out the 20 something forum (we don't card at the door)! You can do this!