Hi all,

My name's Louise, I'm 23 and I'm a Philosophy graduate. I recently completed my Masters degree and I chose not to attend graduation because I'm embarrassed by the way I look due to the weight I've gained over the past several years. At my smallest I was a UK size 8/10, and now I'm a solid 16. For many years I've struggled with anxiety and depression, and I'm an emotional eater. It's not that I dislike healthy food, it just doesn't satisfy me the way stodgy food does. There's no doubt my relationship with food is unhealthy and although I'm desperate to lose weight and change my diet, I have no idea where to start, how to get started, or how to stay motivated. Food is my emotional crutch and I know as long as I continue to see food as a comfort blanket I'm always going to struggle with my weight. I'm taking antidepressants (though I'm not convinced they're working), I see a counsellor once a week, and last year I saw a therapist for seven months, but in truth I feel well and truly stuck. I'm dying to fit back into size 10 jeans because when I look at myself I feel ashamed. I've been feeling pretty low for quite some time so I'm looking forward to meeting people who might be able to provide a bit of inspiration and kick-start my motivation

Welcome Louise! So glad you found us. Congrats on your educational achievements. You have worked so hard to get your Masters degree, please reconsider going to graduation. You deserve to celebrate and be proud of your achievements.
Do you know what food plan you are going to follow? There is a ton of information about many different food plans on this site. Pick a plan that fits in your lifestyle and you can follow long term. I chose calorie counting because it is free and flexible. It allows me to eat almost anything I wanted as long as it fits within my calorie range for the day and there are ton of free apps out there to help you track your food. Give up the sugary drinks and drink lots and lots of water.
Incorporate some exercise into your weekly routine. You do not have to join an expensive gym try to walk more, use the stairs more, download videos off of YouTube or Hulu.com to work out to. There are a lot of things you can to do with spending a ton of money. Exercise will not only help with weight loss but speaking from someone who also suffers from anxiety, it will help you feel better and help with depression. Really it does.
Also, replace the word 'motivation' with commitment. Motivation may get you started but it will not carry you through your journey. Commitment and dedication will carry you through this journey just like they carried you through your educational journey.
Lastly, if you have a bad meal, a bad day, heck, a bad food week. Do NOT let this be a reason to throw in the towel. Get back on track at the next meal. You can do this!!!
Best of luck to you!

Hello,
Good luck to you on your weightloss journey !!!!
- Mary

to 3FC's LOUISE ... you will like it here; we have a UK forum on this site as well. The advice in NEMom's post is spot on; I am also on a portion/calorie plan which is easy, free, and flexible. Where to start? One day at a time; one thing at a time ... cut back on colas and junkies; maybe start walking (you can go out just after dusk, if it is safe where you live; or you can do stuff indoors too).

I am a former binger & emotional response eater myself; so I certainly know how you feel about that. There is an "Emotional Eating: How to Heal" thread in the faith forum; take a look at it and read all the posts to the end. Even if you are not religious, something there may help you right now.

There are many groups here you may want to join; the people here are very friendly and supportive ... good luck!

Welcome, good luck!!