Eating Disorder Recovery at Poppink.com

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(We welcome contributions related to the content and spirit of this site. Promotional and off topic entries will be removed.) If you wish to receive a response to your post concerning an eating disorder issue that concerns you, please consider writing to the eating disorders recovery discussion rather than the guest book.)

Posted By: paatze
Comments: Hi,
Thank you for posting your triumphant journey on line. I have really bennifitted from the exercises. I surprised myself recentley by doing an exercise when I thought no way I'm not going to binge. I did the last hour exercise in part three and something quiet inside shifted . I am 37 years old beautiful inside and out, I know this now. I see with my gut finally that food has been mother and friend for a long time. Slowly I'm learning to go to real friends and even real mothers for soothing. Anyway there's something about this journey you have that speaks to me in a new way.
Thank you.
Patsy

Located in: Yosemite, CA USA - on 2006-03-26 08:56:04

Posted By: Debbie
Comments: A wonderful informative site! I found it a valuable resource in the journey of recovery.
Thank you
Debbie

Located in: Atlanta, Ga USA - on 2006-03-25 06:03:44

Posted By: ASHLEY
Comments: HI MY NAME IS ASHLEY I USED TO HAVE AN EATING DIORDER NOW I EAT ALL THE TIME BUT I NEVER GAIN WIEGHT I DONT HAVE A DISORDER ANY MORE. I LOVE FOOD BUT MY MOM THINKS I HAVE A DISORDER HOW DO I TELL HER I DONT LOVE ALLWAYS ,
ASHLEY

Located in: LOUISVILLE, KY USA - on 2006-03-09 08:23:21

Posted By: Marcy Leavitt
Comments: Thank you for this site. I have two new patients with eating disorders and I am receommending this site for support and continued recovery.

Dr. Marcy

Located in: Los Angeles, CA USA - on 2006-03-01 00:11:46

Posted By: e
Comments: Your guide to stop overeating is incredibly insightful and enlightening. Finally seeing a therapist, and finally ready to change my bad eating habits. Thank you for taking the time and energy for making this website, I know it will truly help guide me in my process to recovery :)

Located in: l.a., ca USA - on 2006-02-25 02:52:06

Posted By: Katie
Comments: Hi, my name is katie I am 17 and am recovering from anorexia. I have been in recovery for 5 months now. I spent 35 days at the Renfrew Center in Philadelphi and it changed my life. I have had really hard weeks, but I still have the Renfrew mentality and I seem to snap out of my lapses just in time. This weekend was super bad and right now I'm thinking about going to have some dessert. It's such a HARD battle, I have had my eating disorder since I was 7 and some days I still wake up and I am like I can't believe that I am going to eat today!! I get so psyched. Believe me I have been struggling for 10 years and I know that others have been struggling for longer but believe me it sooo isn't worth it! If you are looking at this and think maybe "I have an e.d." don't wait! Go get help ASAP!!! I know it's scary but you CAN do it!!! Inpatient treatment only lasts a month or a few but out of your whole life, really that's nothing!! For all of you in recovery keep fighting, you can and will do this I promise, just stay strong and do what scares you!!! Renfrew slogan- Starve no more, Binge no more, Purge no more!! If you have an e.d. consider Renfrew, it saved my life!!!

Located in: , NJ USA - on 2006-02-21 19:00:02

Posted By: Teeka Edenshaw
Comments: i have been having a problem with my eating disorder i am addicted to food and i don't know how to let it go which is very scary because i have a very low self-esteem and i feel like i keep getting fatter and i am reall not so what that all lead to is me being bulimic and it's hard for me to stop so i am getting help from the people around me and there having me look up information
By: Teeka Edenshaw from ketchikan ak,99901

Located in: Juneau, Ak USA - on 2006-02-08 21:16:39

Posted By: Lyndsey
Comments: I have suffered from an eating disorder for 5 years...and I've been in treatment 6 times in the past 2 years. I really, really want to get better...but the acute care facility in Nebraska doesn't seem to be what I need. Residential treatment would help a lot I think...if I could just eat normal for a few months (4 or 5), I think I could make it a lifestyle change...but I can't seem to do that without support...even couple of weeks I really have a bad spell and mess everything up. The big problem is that my family cannot afford residential and my insurance doesn't cover it. I'm getting really frustrated...especially right now because I'm struggling really bad and my weight won't even drop fast enough....probably because that are some days when I am able to eat enough to maintain....I just feel so lost!!!

Located in: Lincoln, NE USA - on 2006-02-03 22:19:53

Posted By: Barbara
Comments: All the best. looks nice! useful information.

Located in: , USA - on 2006-01-19 16:43:41

Posted By: Emma
Comments: I do not suffer from an eating disorder but at times feel tempted to try non-healthy tips and tricks of the sort advocated on irresponsible websites. Food does not control my life so I feel like this would never overwhelm me or lead to obsession.

Having come across Pro-ana sites after watching a documentary, I realised the dangers of inflammatory sites advocating anorexia as a lifestyle 'choice'. As a law graduate, I hope that cyberspace law develops in a way that bans sites that are factually incorrect and dangerous to vulnerable young girls (in the way that harmful pornography websites are tackled). It is equally important that sites like this one are well publicised so that people with genuine (or potential) eating disorders can find non-harmful ways of facing their problems.

Located in: edinburgh, UK - on 2006-01-19 11:44:38

Posted By: Haley
Comments: Hi, I am 27, and have had bulimia for 7 years. At first it was a total addiction. I exercised everyday, for 45 minutes. I had to eat as much food as possible, and then immediately throw up. I spent up to 30 dollars a day on fast food. It comsumed all my money, energy, and time. It ruled my life. After about 3 years, I started to "control" it. I realized I could hold down a little bit of food and it wouldn't make me fat. I'm now into my 7th year, and it scares me. I know I'm not healthy, but I'm scared to talk to someone about...I've tried that once before. I was so scared to post this, but I wanted another 27 year old with this same story to know she's not alone.

Located in: , USA - on 2006-01-15 23:53:56

Posted By: Hannah
Comments: hey my name is hannah and im 17, iv been having a problem wif food for about 2-3years now, i used to just purge and then i realised its just gunna make my teeth go yellow and horrid, so i stopped eatin. my friends had all noticed and started to worry bout me cos i would faint all the time. i just didnt no wat else to do, so i decided i would eat and then i would take numerous caffiene pills to keep me awake to excerise all the caleries and fat away. i no my friends say i am fine the way i am, but i just want to be perfect:'(

Located in: London, USA - on 2006-01-11 19:33:45

Posted By: Rachel Levi, LMFT, CEDS
Comments: What a great resource. Thanks for all your hard work and dedication to helping those who need help and information find it. Rachel Levi, LMFT
Shoreline-eatingdisorders.com Long Beach, CA

Located in: Long Beach, CA USA - on 2006-01-07 23:29:44

Posted By: Avalon Hills Residential Eating Disorders Program
Comments: Poppink.com is a great website that provides essential information regarding eating disorders. It is a great website for increasing the awareness and interest in eating disorders.

Located in: Petersboro, UT USA - on 2006-01-05 14:55:07

Posted By: Samantha
Comments: So just yesterday almost my hole family found out that I have an eating disorder. Bulimic to be exact. For about 6 months now Ive just been down... my parents seperated a few years ago. I went into this depression. But only when I was alone. Then I began to notive I was getting bigger. But food, It was just something that made me feel good. it still does. I threw up every so often, then it became a daily thing, then it became just, so much. It was always on my mind. Eat, purge. Gosh it really stinks. Im sorry for ever doing it. And now, ppl know. And it is so embarrasing. I hate it. I want to stop. And i am gong to. I havint done it in 5 days. And I believe in yself that I wont do it ever again. Not saying that erge to want to wont be there... but its done and out now. Ive given it to God. I just pray that ppl will believe me. its really hard when they dont.

Located in: Rancho, Ca USA - on 2005-12-12 23:39:06

Posted By: Allison W.
Comments: Hey girls :) I had an eating disorder in high school where i would barely eat(but i claimed i was eating..which i was..just barely) then obsessively exercising. Sometimes i would eat a lot..then exercise more. And well..I'm just here to say that i have recovered from that, only by the grace of God. And ya'll can too! i was so miserable, self-conscious and overly sensitive..my every thought was obsessed with food. Now, I'm a Nutrition major at Auburn University, trying to use it for telling others what REAL HEALTH is. I just encourage yall to take it one day at a time. Make yourself do other things..even if it hurts. Hang out with friends..go on a walk and take pictures..sing. Life is too beautiful to waste and we only get one. Please know that. And also know that at any time you have the freedom to pick up a Bible and read about Jesus Christ..the One who got me out of the mess, and desperately wants you out of it too so that He can use you for his purposes. Life with Him as my Help and my daily source of strength is incomparable. You can't do this alone.Please trust this..and try it. My heart truly goes out to each and every one of you with much love.~Allison

Located in: Auburn, AL USA - on 2005-12-01 15:48:14

Posted By: Raeanne Matney
Comments: This is a wonderful website. It is very imformative and useful. Thank you for all your helpful informatin on this issue.

Located in: Johnson City, TN USA - on 2005-12-01 15:15:34

Posted By: vince
Comments: im a guy and i stop eating im eating 150cals aday just eating a plate of lettas and an apple i think im going to get sick soon ppl tell me i im and i stop drinking water dont went to get blow up i jst drink back coffee all day do you thnk i eed help

Located in: wlim, del USA - on 2005-11-26 16:40:06

Posted By: Martha West
Comments: This website is both informative and thoughtprovoking. Making your Triumphant Journey Workbook available is a real gift. Thank you

Located in: Little Rock, AR USA - on 2005-11-18 15:08:03

Posted By: Anon
Comments: QUESTION:
If someone was bulemic, how much of purging (time period) would it take for someone to get internal damage and their teeth to start dacaying??


Located in: adelaide, sa USA - on 2005-10-23 21:48:00

Posted By: H. Thomasine Wren
Comments: I am interesting in finding out eating diorders for those who have been sexually abused as a child. I was repeatedly abused and I think I have an eating disorder. I've had gastric by-pass surgery, but I have regained 50 pounds and I never feel right in whatever size I am. I eat even when I'm not hungry. What is wrong with me?

Located in: Owings, MD USA - on 2005-10-23 14:36:54

Posted By: sandy
Comments: I have bulimia and Ive never told anyone. Im very ashamed. Ive had it for several years..not sure what triggered it.

Located in: Lawrenceburg, TN USA - on 2005-10-19 22:19:42

Posted By: Paula B
Comments: I found this site a while ago and found that the first four exercises to stop overeating really work. Now I just have to use them...Thank you.

Located in: Sterling, VA USA - on 2005-10-08 06:10:08

Posted By: Painfully Silent
Comments: This sight was very helpful. I just started a support forum for people who self-injure as well for eating disorders. I had access to self-injury bill of rights. I hope you don't mind because i posted a link to your site so my members can come and visist as well as have access to a bill of rights for eating diorders. If you want to check my site out please do so http://silentscars.spreebb.com
Thanks,
Painfully silent

Located in: orlando, fl USA - on 2005-09-21 14:39:17

Posted By: Clare
Comments: I have never entered a site like this and it has given me the idea that just maybe there is a little hope for me after all. I loved the inspirations. keep up the good work. Stay Safe, Stay Calm Stay Whole.

Located in: , Ireland - on 2005-09-11 11:32:17

Posted By: MARTY
Comments: As a therapist treating individuals with eating disorders, I found information in this website informative, refreshing, thought-provoking and very thorough. You're obviously doing good work. If you ever develop an e-mail newsletter, I'm definitely interested.

Located in: raleigh, nc USA - on 2005-08-15 15:53:18

Posted By: E.<
Comments: I was surfing on the Internet and came across your site. It is really excellent! A lot of interesting info. Thanks!

Located in: Paris, France - on 2005-08-06 17:13:34

Posted By: Sarah
Comments: Keep it up guys!!! You all have the courage and the confidence to achieve your dreams! I'm really proud of all of you and you are all so brave to continue to do this. Please, dont give up. Think of the starving people in africa who have no food, then think how much you waste when you are so lucky to get it. If you get a gift of food, don't waste it!
Keep it going!!!! and whatever you do Dont give up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx love to all xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx


Located in: Stoke, UK - on 2005-07-08 09:07:04

Posted By: [MIke
Comments: I have lost 50 pounds in the last year. A work injury (1999) and divorce (2004) have caused this. I'll pray for both of us.

Located in: Summersville, WV USA - on 2005-07-01 01:22:47

Posted By: Rhiannon
Comments: Hi i just wanted to say keep up the great work ive been suffer from both anorexia and bulimia for about 2 years now and i just found this site now so thank you for all your help.

smile always and love life love rhiannon

Located in: QUEENSLAND, QLD AUSTRALIA - on 2005-06-22 21:11:35

Posted By: Paula
Comments: Sometimes new thoughts and feelings come and go. I regained hope and belief in my recovery, and now I have to go in the hospital. I am having a hard time reconciling that and remaining hopeful. I wrote a poem.
Title: I am not alone

Nestled in a mountain meadow
Four bouilders touch
Rock solid and ageless
They represent the strength that lies within us

Sharp juts and hollows
Allow the boulders to be gripped
But it seems to me I've slipped
Sometimes my faith in my abilities receed
But it's a fact
That I'm on a path
To recovery
And I do believe

Thanks for being there.

Located in: Baltimore, md USA - on 2005-05-05 08:56:54

Posted By: mizz
Comments: I am praying for everyone and I know we are going to be alright. There is hope. Don't lose your hope. Hold on. God bless you. I love you all. Really. Live. I speak life to you. I am going to be alright as well. :)


Located in: St.Louis, MO USA - on 2005-05-03 22:59:59

Posted By: mizz
Comments: You know, I need some help and I don't know what this site is going to do...but I may be a compulsive overeater. I think I just found out when I was trying to do a report on compulsive overeating and anorexia...but now, I need help because my eyes are opened to my own personal problems.

Located in: St.Louis, MO USA - on 2005-05-03 22:57:54

Posted By: LaTrice
Comments: I CAN'T STOP EATING. I have a compulsive eating disorder and I don't know what to do! I pray that this site helps me -

Located in: Atlanta, GA USA - on 2005-04-05 12:27:15

Posted By: Jill
Comments: i'm 25 years old and have been strugging with an eating disorder since i was in jr high school. i'm the proud mother of a beautiful baby that is 2. i don't even wiegh 100 lbs and i struggle everyday to fight this battle. i eat things like chocolate and drink ensure but that just isn't enough. i want my life back and what to be able to watch my son grow and for him to be healthy and not learn from my bad habits.

Located in: hammond, la USA - on 2005-04-01 23:49:33

Posted By: s
Comments: hey i've been struggling with anorexia for about 2 yrs now and was recently hospitalized for the first time at 5' 6" and i weighed barely 96 pounds. i am proud to say that since then i am regularly going to the hospital and an working very hard on my recovery! i want my life back

Located in: Madison, NJ USA - on 2005-04-01 16:06:39

Posted By: Nella
Comments: My eating disorder seems to keep me 10 pounds over weight, I purge my dinners and take my laxatives at night. This routine has been going on for 7 years now. At first it dropped me 70 pounds. Now it just keeps me at a so called normal weight for my height. I struggle daily with my weight and my laxative abuse is starting to worry me. What have I done to myself. I am worried I have damaged my insides and cannot find it within myself to see a doctor, tell my family, etc. What to do what to do.

Located in: , USA - on 2005-03-29 20:33:06

Posted By: ashley
Comments: My name is ashley im 16 years old, i suffer from compulsive eating, no matter how hard i try i cant stop, some times i eat untill i throw up.
I am failing school, and i hate life so much sometimes i wish i would die, i tried to kill my self twice, once when i was 9 and another time when i was 12.
I have burn scars on my arms and no one seems to notice so i guess its not too bad, i've stoped thinking about killing myself for 4 years now, so i guess thats good, but we all die later anyways so.....

Located in: , USA - on 2005-03-29 17:44:12

Posted By: ashley
Comments: My name is ashley im 16 years old, i suffer from compulsive eating, no matter how hard i try i cant stop, some times i eat untill i throw up.
I am failing school, and i hate life so much sometimes i wish i would die, i tried to kill my self twice, once when i was 9 and another time when i was 12.
I have burn scars on my arms and no one seems to notice so i guess its not too bad, i've stoped thinking about killing myself for 4 years now, so i guess thats good, but we all die later anyways so.....

Located in: , USA - on 2005-03-29 17:42:53

Posted By: Barbie
Comments: Hey my name is Britt im 16 and i have been struggling on and off with all sorts of eating disorders...anything to make me small...i always said but it aint about that...i had a whole modeling carrer ahead of me and i was 2 steps from messing that all up...i was getting too small where my ribs showed and it was awful...i tryed so hard to stop and i did with the love my boyfriend and family gave me made me realize that me and all of you are too good for all this...i felt so alone my teeth became brittle and my hair began to fall out i looked like i had aids...and i didnt wanna be like that the rest of my life...i was looking forward to haven my life back and i got it i now am 5'5 about 120 ilbs and i love it...i can never even think about going back to the life i was lived in i was so depressed i cryed non-stop over anything..then came the time when my mother died and a *WHOLE* lotta other stuff went on that most kids would never even dream happening to them...and u can make it...i did...and my life is wonderful...lots of love...Barbie

Located in: Ludiwici, GA GA - on 2005-03-29 13:47:53

Posted By: Catarina
Comments: All I want to eat is chocolate, breads, donuts, sandwiches, diet soda, hardly no water. I know this is all wrong, I am 54 and have high cholestoral and take medicine. I am 5 ft. 7in. weigh 171lbs. I was doing great before Christmas lost 15lbs and was workingout - always workout, but now I am busy and just want sweets and carbs. I know everything I am doing is wrong. I just crave this so much. When I am finished with the chocolate I get an upset stomach, no matter if I eat a little or a lot. I am out of control. I say everyday I will stop but still do it. I go all day just fine then at night I give in or I start in the morning for a little while and then no more for the rest of the day. I cannot seem to get back on track. Stress, nerves, too busy, husband also barking at me for something, I am retired from a job I had for 33yrs. and now I clean houses and I am very busy. But something is not right. I am a church going lady, I love the Lord and pray about this but I still choose to disobey and not do what I know is right for my own health. I can do it, It just seems that I just give up. I have to stop. HELP

Located in: Springfield, Illinois USA - on 2005-03-26 02:15:44

Posted By: Princess
Comments: I wish I could look in the mirror w/o hating myself. I can't even get a shower w/o closing my eyes. I want to be normal and not so sad all the time. I am supposed to be beautiful--but they way my body looks is just unacceptable. I hate it so much and sometimes have bad thoughts about myself. I want someone to help me feel better but I don't know what to do.......

Located in: Harrisburg, pa USA - on 2005-03-24 10:57:59

Posted By: malaika
Comments: hey, this is to "me"
everybody starts different, because nobody's eating disorder is the same. If you are preoccupied with your weight and feel guilty about the way you look or what you eat, talk to somebody. An eating disorder will not solve ANYTHING. the easiest way to deal with it is to just not start.

by the way, i really like this site. i dont like to look at these normally, because they are so "triggering", but this one is really pro-recovery. Keep up the good work girls!


Located in: Groton, VT USA - on 2005-03-21 15:15:13

Posted By: barbie
Comments: i want to share this poem i wrote with any one willing to listen. i am not being hipocriticle, as a bulimic i wrote this to help my self. maybe it can help one of you.

A CHOICE IN LIFE
being bulimic is such a rush
with a gag or preasure filled touch
you can puke up what you had for lunch
keep the calories from adding on
but be starving all day long
or simply
yeah right simply
keep the food down
and have to dael with all the pain that comes around
so your puking 3 times a day
you go through all that just because how much you weigh
but tomorrow is a new day
your opinion may change
but if it dont
then your stuck
you may even be out of luck
a heartattack may come into play
then it would be the end of your days
so now your dead from being a bulimic
dont you wish you could relive and rethink this?
but you cant
the choice was made
now you can only look down from above
and see just how much you hurt the ones you love
being bulimic isnt right
so keep your finger out of your throat
and save your life!


Located in: bryan, ohio USA - on 2005-03-16 09:18:58

Posted By: barbie
Comments: i am 18 years old and i have been bulimic for 6 years on and off. but in the last 7 months it has gotten really bad. i have lost 70 pounds since the begining of the summer. at first i loved the way i looked. but now i lose weight and am happy only untill i become use to my body, then i hate myself again. i have talked to some of my family, and i am going to go see a doctor tommarrow. but i do not think it will do any good. they want to put me on a bunch of meds, if they make me gain weight i know i will not be strong enough to stop. my boyfriend and my uncle say that i am giving up before i even try. but they do not know what it is like to hate yourself. to look in the mirror and only see ugly and fat. this is the first time i have ever done anything like this, but it feels good.

Located in: bryan, ohio USA - on 2005-03-16 09:07:14

Posted By: Breanna
Comments: Hi my name is Breanna and I have an eating disorders. I have put my name in this web site becuse I what people to now that Ihave a eating disorders and want them to hlep me with my eating disorders your guset Breanna

Located in: mobile, AL USA - on 2005-03-11 15:29:38

Posted By: Lauren
Comments: i'm bulimic i've been bulimic fort wo years am currently in a mentalhospital and i think i'm never going to recover.

Located in: vineland, nj USA - on 2005-03-09 10:25:47

Posted By: alex
Comments: Hi, im bulimic, was anorexic for 2 years but can handle life with bulimia better. I wish i knew how to be normal and eat normally but its either too little or too much. im sitting on a perfect weight now, but keep over eating then having to purge so the scsles don't go up. Im tired of it. i cant do it forever.

Located in: sydney, nsw australia - on 2005-03-03 23:15:37

Posted By: me
Comments: hi...i really don't know what to do...I'm about 5'5 and 118 pounds...i weigh myself constantly and go on spurts of not eating much to throwing up when i do eat...im scaring myself...am i in the beginning of an eating disorder? is this how it all starts?

Located in: , USA - on 2005-03-03 12:51:58

Posted By: kristin byrd
Comments: THIS WEBSITE IS RELE SHOWED ME THAT I DONT NEED TO BECOME anorexic,I WAS THINKIN ABOUT IT. BUT NOW I DONT THINK I AM GONNA DO IT! THANKS ALOT!

Located in: south fulton, TN USA - on 2005-03-02 19:42:14

Posted By: Andrea
Comments: I suffered from anorixa for over a year,I began to beat it and gaind weight the trouble is i was put on medication which cause me to put more weigh on and again anorixa has won it came back.

Located in: , England - on 2005-03-02 12:12:12

Posted By: tucker
Comments: Im 15 and have been stugling with anorexia for a couple of months now. Its hard but im working to get better. Please god just help all of us to get better.

Located in: , USA - on 2005-02-24 17:49:53

Posted By: Lisa
Comments: I have been struggling anorexia for five years now, and it is hard for me to think about a life without worrying about what I weigh. Thanks to all my friends and family I am slowly getting out of the awful cycle. This website was great, it makes me realize that I am not alone, even though it always feels like that. Thanks you. Great website

Located in: Dubuque, IA USA - on 2005-02-24 16:59:17

Posted By: Jessica
Comments: Im sixteen trying to overcome my owsn eating disorder but in the meantime im not gonna give into the erge im gonna continue fight to stay alive!


Located in: Chicopee, MA USA - on 2005-02-20 00:43:05

Posted By: CAtherine
Comments: Hi, I have been suffering anorexia for nearly a year, since I was 11. It really is the worst thing to live with and the hardest thing to overcome. School is the most important thing to me but I had to miss 3 months while in hospital putting the weight back on. However recovery doesn't stop there and I still have my bad days........this is an inspirational site that has really helped to keep me on track!
Catherine xxx

Located in: Braintree, Essex UK - on 2005-02-17 02:22:16

Posted By: gena
Comments: HI MY NAME IS GENA AND I HAVE BEEN STRUGGLEING WITH BULEMIA FOR OVER 6 YEARS NOW. IT DOSENT SEEM SOON THAT I WILL GET BETTER FROM THE LOOKS OF THINGS. IM VERY SCARED. I AM A STUDENT AND I AM FINDING THAT IT EVEN INTERFEARS WITH MY SCHOOL WORK. I HATE IT SO MUCH BUT I CANT STOP. THIS IS MY FIRST ENTRY TO ANYWHERE. IM HAPPY I CAN DO THIS IT WONT BE MY LAST.

Located in: new waterford, ns canada - on 2005-02-14 23:01:19

Posted By: Kia
Comments: Hi my cheer coach had anorexia from the time she was 18 to just about 2 years ago and she was worried about the cheerleading team when she a few of us talking about how fat we are and told us her story. So I wanted to find more info and this site was a big help. Thanks!

Located in: Hilliard, OH USA - on 2005-02-07 15:21:28

Posted By: Elisabeth
Comments: I've been suffering with anorexia since I was about 15 years old and I'm now 21 next month. I just wanted to sympathize with others about this disease it is awful and other people do not understand. Looking at me people would never know. It's a quiet disease until you let it get out of control. There has to be some way to beat it......... I have a little girl and when I got pregnant I gained 135 pounds and I lost it all by the time she was 6 months... I blame my eating disorder for the excessive weight gain. When I got pregnant I was abusing laxatives and was very malnourished. Ladies keep on keeping on in the way that you know you have to survive. Take little baby steps and you will succeed. If you try to do too much at one time with this disease you will fail. That's my advice and it is also an opinion, I hope I can help someone out there because I don't want anyone to suffer the way that I have. Good luck and lots of love

Located in: Galesburg, Illinois USA - on 2005-01-26 09:48:38

Posted By: Patti
Comments: 20 years ago I was in and out of hospitals for 3 years diagnosed with anorexia. Having been fine for so long I didn't even think that it could happen again. My thoughts have become focused on my weight. I find myself weighing every day. Part of me is scared and part of me feels pride. This is a great web site. I will visit again.

Located in: Raytown, MO USA - on 2005-01-24 23:20:16

Posted By: Alicia Laroche
Comments: Hi i'm about 16 and i am currently struggling with Bulimia and i have a lot of depression problems. i am currently going to counseling and have been bulimic for 1 1/2 years. I just wanted to vistit this site to get more information on eating disorders and i like to read about them. I really enjoyed reading the stories and am going to work hard to get better.

alicia

Located in: swanton, vt USA - on 2005-01-01 00:20:34

Posted By: Katherina Colston
Comments: This is the BEST site about eating disorders. I've been suffering with anorexia for over fifty years and didn't know it until ten years ago I became a fitness trainer and weight management consultant. The irony is that I wanted to help others while I had a major eating problem myself.
Thank you for the great site!


Located in: Calhoun, GA USA - on 2004-12-30 13:32:24

Posted By: smilzee
Comments: very nice site, i have lived with eating disorders since i was 16...im 30 now,and have been in recovery for 1 year, your site is really informing and helpful, cheers

Located in: , nc USA - on 2004-12-19 05:01:09

Posted By: Theresa
Comments: Joanna,
Something you wrote in one of your books has always stuck with me. I would like to use it in an upcoming book, crediting you of course. I can offer you $25 and 6 free copies of the book when it is published.

The day it is used is my birthday.

What you see here is a sample format, with an area after the inspirational message available for jounaling. The excerpt I would like to use reads

DECEMBER 12
Once you know your secrets you begin to learn
that you are able to live with the knowledge.
You can strengthen yourself through practice
and understanding to live your life with more appreciation for the experiences you have survived. Then you will have no need for the methods
which keep you numb and oblivious. There lies triumph and freedom.
Joanna Poppink, MFT

FOOTNOTES FOR LIFE

"As long as a man stands in his own way, everything
seems to be in his way." Ralph Waldo Emerson

Thank you for considering my request.
Theresa Peluso

Located in: Deerfield, FL USA - on 2004-11-23 18:09:53

Posted By: ETHEL
Comments: YOUR SITE IS HELPING ME A GREAT DEAL! IM RECOVERING FROM AN EATING DISORDER WHICH I HAD FOR 6 YEARS. THE EXCERSIZES ARE GREAT! THANKS AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!

Located in: BROOKLYN,, NY USA - on 2004-10-21 10:51:53

Posted By: Angel
Comments: Hi. I have been struggling with my weight for a while now. I'm only 15 years old. About 3 or 4 weeks ago I decided that I was done. I didn't want to be fat anymore. I want to be the one out of four girls in my family WITHOUT diabedies or obesity. I was 155 lbs. So I stoped eating. I told my friends that I ate a big breakfast because I don't have money for lunch, and when they offered to buy me food I said I wasen't hungry and would eat when I got home. But I didn't eat when I got home, I told my mom that I did though so I didn't have to eat supper either. I have not been diagnoised with anything but my g-ma took me to the doctor for an ear infection and saw that I'm now 134 lbs. my family is all over me now about eating and a friend of mine made me promise to check out all the sides of anorexia before I choose it as a lifestlye. so i'm checking it out. I don't know what to do. Sorry this is so long, sorry to waste your time. Nice website though.

Located in: Lincoln, Ne USA - on 2004-10-16 17:58:52

Posted By: Sarah Binding
Comments: What a wonderful site. Lots of information and advice, an inspiration!!

Located in: , Ireland - on 2004-09-29 07:22:12

Posted By: Grant Me The Serenity...
Comments: Joanna, I love your site. You have consistently brought support and help to people suffering from eating disoders.

Sunny
Grant Me The Serenity... Self-help, Addiction & Recovery
http://www.Open-Mind.org

Located in: , CA USA - on 2004-09-24 01:06:42

Posted By: Ashleigh
Comments: Hi! I am doing an expository/personal narrative essay on Eating Disorders. It's pretty much explaining eating disorders and how to look for them, but I am also throwing in some personal experience, since I was diagnosed with anorexia at the age of 12. I just wanted to say that it is really nice to come onto a website and see so many people saying the same things I do about having had an Eating Disorder. I also wanted to say this is a very professional website. Koodos to you! :O)

Located in: Martinez, GA USA - on 2004-09-14 12:36:32

Posted By: Elizabeth
Comments: Looking for some answers

Located in: Red Deer, AB Canada - on 2004-08-29 15:34:58

Posted By: RHIANNON
Comments: HI EVERYONE...MY NAME IS RHIANNON AND IM A 16 YEAR OLD GRIL SUFFERER FROM ANOREXIA + BULIMA FOR ABOUT 2 YEARS NOW AND WHENEVER I THINK LIFE IS TO HARD I JUST GO ON THIS SITE AND EVERYONE HELPS ME THOUGH IT. SO I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO JOANNE AND EVERYONE ELAS WHO WAS INVOLE IN MAKING THIS SUITE SPECIAL HUGS AND KISSES LOVE RHIANNON

Located in: SYD, NSW AUSTRALIA - on 2004-08-15 20:40:08

Posted By: James Ratcliff
Comments: This is a really well designed guestbook, and lots of intelligent posts are here.

Located in: Iowa Park, TX USA - on 2004-07-09 13:04:07

Posted By: Brett Hodges
Comments:
Hi Joanna,
Thanks so much for the link to RemedyFind: Eating Disorders. You have created a valuable resource for ED patients and families. Thanks!

Located in: Santa Barbara, CA USA - on July 4, 2004 at 16:45

Posted By: Daleh
Comments:
Hey... I’m doing a research on eating disorders... and I can’t find any information on how a person can get an eating disorder... What happens to them... what do they do to course and eating disorder?

Located in: Sydney, NSW Australia - on June 30, 2004 at 05:40

Posted By: Eliza
Comments:
im 15 yrs old.. and i have been going through the hole eating disorder think.. and i feel like i have to starve myself.. and everytime I eat something.. I dont even finish it.. i dont even eat half of it..and i was talking to the counciler about it.. but she told me that i just think i am.. but i noe i am.. wat do i do?? plzz help

Located in: Sydney, NSW Australia - on June 30, 2004 at 05:14

Posted By: MGBADA JOE ABA NAIJA
Comments:
I LOVE THIS PAGE. PLEASE, KEEP UP TEH GOOD WORK.

Located in: ABA NAIJA, ABA BENIN - on June 9, 2004 at 15:49

Posted By: Joyce Boaz
URL: http://www.giftfromwithin.org
Comments:
joanna: a wonderful site filled with great materials for those with eating disorders. thank you for your dedication and hardwork to help us better understand how these disorders affects individuals and families. Best wishes, Joyce, Gift From Within-PTSD Resources for Survivors & Cargivers

USA - on June 2, 2004 at 11:29

Posted By: Sue
Comments:
Hi, I am looking for info. on eating disorder. I have been anorixa/bulimia for 18 plus years now. YEs., I know what this has done to me and my body. However, I have now just come clean with good-friends and tell the truth about me. They really want to help and "save" me. They re not hearing me when I tell them they can't. Where canI get info. to give them to help them understand what this is REALLY about and the why's and how's about it? Before shut down about it. The pressure they are putting me under is very very stressful. Thank You for you time.

Located in: New Hope, MN USA - on May 26, 2004 at 16:22

Posted By: Nicole
Comments:
My daughter who is now 14 has been suffering from anorexia from the age of 10-12 and now bulimia for the past two years. shes been hospitalized twice in which the first time she was only 65 lbs. I take her to therapists and her regular eating disorder clinic weekly but nothing seems to help her. i understand (but only so much) what she is going through only because i've been helping her through everything the past four years but i hope i can learn more from your website and direct her in reading some material also. thank you so very much!!

Located in: harrisburg, pa USA - on May 26, 2004 at 11:46

Posted By: John Petrocelli
URL: http://www.healthwithhypnosis.com
Comments:
Working with many young women in NYC with anorexia and bulimia, I found much useful information here.

John Petrocelli - hypnotherapist NY
http://www.healthwithhypnosis.com
http://www.trancecoach.com
http://www.thehypnosisclub.com

Located in: New York, NY USA - on May 25, 2004 at 23:08

Posted By: Sue
Comments:
I've been in recovery for 3 years after 30 years of recurrent episodes of anorexia involving purging, starving, laxative abuse. Keep fighting for strength and health. I had the misconception that my body was the enemy and my mind was my strength (in reality I had given anorexia nervosa the credit for being the health part of my mind). That if I controlled what my body looked like by listening to what my mind told me, I was victorious. I was not... I almost died, listening to a very ill frame of thinking. I didn't have control of anything at the time, I gave the control to a deamon (anorexia nervosa) that was going to take my life. Yeah, yeah I know, "That can' t or won't happen to me, though." I thought that too.
You need to make a decision to live, you don't have to gain a lot of weight to re gain your mental capacities. If you must, simply tell the voice, "Thanks for all you have tried to do, I got it under control from here." Don't give your mind away to anybody or anything, especially to something that can cost you a life time full of happiness. I now have a beautiful baby boy. I'm ever so grateful I had the guts to bid Anorexia Nervosa adieu! Am I cured, maybe not.. But, I accept what I look like, I will never allow myself to get fat, but I will never allow "the voice" tell me my self worth is based on the appearance of my body.. Good Luck to you, all!

Located in: SLC, UT USA - on May 24, 2004 at 16:40

Posted By: Bonnie
Comments:
I have had an eating disorder for 23 years now. I developed it when I was 19 and in college. I am now 42 and feel that it will never end. I just found this web site and hope that I may find some comfort in reading other people's stories. I have tried numerous counselors, doctors, psychiatrists, and numerous types of drugs, which seemed to only make things worse. I have two daughters, ages 14 and 15, and fear they will end up like me. I pray that they don't. I am anxious to read more information that I see if available to me on this web site. Thanks for sharing.

Located in: Massillon, OH USA - on April 27, 2004 at 15:32

Posted By: Kate
Comments:
I am also trying my hardest to recover from an eating disorder. I'm 15, 5"7, 130 lbs and i have been battling with bulemia for over a year now. I really want to stop making myself throw up and i don't do it as much as i used to, but when i don't throw up i feel fat and i feel like my stomach is hanging out so much. I've been running a lot (in the morning before school, and after school) and i am very active. but i can't seem to keep the weight off in any other way and i don't know what to do :(. But i am trying my best and i know that i'm just hurting myself.

Located in: midland, TX USA - on April 25, 2004 at 11:20

Posted By: Jaine
Comments:
im 17 and have anorexia. I have had it for 7 years but was only diagnosed 2 years ago. Since the doagnosis Ive been in hospital 12 times I lost 31kg but i still see im fat. I have heard people can see there weight loss but IU can't see mine i still see i look how i did before. it's so annoying because i want to be thin and see it how can i get better if i can't see im thin?
anyway i hope anyone reading this who doesn't have an E.D never tried to go into starvation or binging because it's not worth it. It destroys your life and those around you!

Located in: melb, vic aus - on April 7, 2004 at 05:32

Posted By: Latoria
Comments:
Hi,
I am 15 years old and worried about a family friend who is 21 , lives at home and is severely bulemic. She binges nearly once a week, punishes herself by extensive running, somewhat recovers and then starts all over again the next week. Her life at home is fairly stable and she has not had any really traumatic events in he life. Her disorder is a great strain on her mother and on her own life. She has been to specialists that have not helped and taken to the emergency after really bad binges. Nothing seems to really help her. i was wondering if hypnosis was used to cure disorders like this and if it was succesful?


Canad - on March 17, 2004 at 15:25

Posted By: Lydia
Comments:
hi, i am currently studing psychology and the course includes eating disorders i didn't really understand eating disorders. first i thought oh people that have them just want to loose weight and do this in a dramatic way. i didn't realise that in some cases (or most) that it isn't their fault. i feel so upset when i hear some stories about people with the eating disorders i just want to help them, i know that weight and your apperance is so hard to manage and deal with. i have always had larger legs its like a trade in our family but then when i was 9 i started to put alot of weight on and suffered from the consequences such as stretch marks which make me feel very insecure about my body. i started binge eating and throwing up i dont believe that i was bulimic as it was only for a short period of time. i know am at an ideal weight but still dont have the full confidence i would like because of these scars, and are very wary of what people think when they see me.
i feel that your site has provided me with alot of information and help so thankyou xxx

UK - on March 9, 2004 at 14:28

Posted By: Earlene
Comments:
I just found out that my daughter is suffering from bulemia. I did not even know it. I was looking for ways to help her when I started to read the material I realized that she and I have the same problem it's just expressing itself in different ways. My sister was put in jail recently for drug use. I found out that the drug of choice was methanphetamine. They make this from diet pills. She said that the diet pills stopped working and a "friend" told her that if she used meth it would get rid of the fat. Well it did just that and then some. She was gone for a year and no-one heard from her. When I saw her again, she was in jail. My God, I can't describe the skeleton I saw staring back at me in a shell of what was once my sister. Is loosing weight worth loosing your life? And now my daughter has headed down the same road. I am now wondering why we all have the same issues. My mother is heavy, my older sister is heavy, my younger sister is heavy, my grandmother was heavy and my other grandmother was bulemic until the day she died. I unknowningly thought it had missed my daughter, but appearently that was not the case. She recognized the pattern and was doing the extreme to keep from going there. I feel like the example of what she dosen't want to be. Now, all I can do is my homework and try to understand the illness. I found out the just two days ago. I confronted her about missing so much school and she just started talking about how she eats then goes to the bathroom and purges it. She said her fingers were not long enough to cause her to vomit, so she used a straw with the end curved so it would not scratch her throat. She said that blood was showing up in her vomit and that she got scared and finally talked to me. I just need to know where to start. I got her an appointment to see a doctor for the physical stuff and a counselor for emotional stuff but what else can I do? That's why I visited this website. I hope that we can both recover and employ the ideas presented here. I know its a long road and changing the behavior is going to take a lot of effort. At a loss in Salt Lake City.

Located in: t Lake City, UT USA - on March 3, 2004 at 09:43

Posted By: Paul
URL: http://www.swedauk.org
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

Well done on such a great site. The internet is a great place to find information and support but it can also be a bit of a minefield. It's great to find quality sites like yours.

With Kind Regards,
Paul - Somerset & Wessex Eating Disorders Association Volunteer.

UK - on March 1, 2004 at 05:35

Posted By: Crista Nicole Niwranski
Comments:
Hi my name is Crista and I am a bulimic. I have been struggling with it for quite some time. I wanted to say thank you very much for creating this website and to all the people that have contributed to it with pieces of thier lives so that they can be put into other's lives to help them! I do not feel quite so alone anymore.
Thank You so much again
Crista Niwranski

Located in: Woodridge, Illinois USA - on

Posted By: Yvonne S
Comments:
I have been in recovery from bulemia for a year and a half. After living with this disease for sixteen years I found hope after attending a 12 Step Program.I wanted to let others know there is a solution. I hope you can find a 12 Step Program in your area.

Located in: Edmonton, AB Canada - on

Posted By: Denise
Comments:
I was really hoping to find help for my husband who has bulemia. He goes in and out of denial that he purges. I cannot find any support groups for males. If anyone could help, thank you

Located in: costa mesa, ca USA - on

Posted By: Roxanne
Comments:
Wow.
I ask myself...Maybe THIS is where I can start to understand myself.

I am a 44 year old professional who has been a compulsive overeater for probably 30 years. In trying to understand myself and my behaviour I could never understand which came first, the depression or the over eating. I have tried Prozac and other antidepressants over the years, hoping that I was just clinically depressed...looking for answers. As I sit here thinking about whether I should try them again, I found inside my heart AND this website that pills will not help.

When you know nothing other than the life you have been living, it is hard to understand that your life experiences may have contributed to your disease. It's like the blind man who has never seen...he can never miss seeing, because he never has. He simple wonders. That is how I feel when I see so many other people who do not feel like I do. How nice it would feel not to have this problem.

I once called the Radar Institute in Seattle out of desperation. Although I was no able to afford going there for help, the receptionist told me something I have never forgotten. She said,"Eating is the good girl's drug" In my case, she hit the nail on the head.

So here I am, on my journey of self discovery and hopefully healing. Joanna, your website with all it's information has given me hope once more. Your understanding of this disease is like a blanket for me now. Here I go....wish me luck

Roxanne

Located in: Kamloops, BC Canada - on

Posted By: Joanna Poppink
URL: http://www.poppink.com
Comments:
FYI
Eating Disorder Recovery Conference in Los Angeles

UCLA Extension joins with the Los Angeles Task Force on Eating Disorders and Remuda Ranch to co-sponsor Eating Disorders and the Recovery Process
Many people find their lives restricted by eating disorders and related behaviors, including restrictive dieting, compulsive exercising, and dangerous dietary supplement use. Join clinicians and others at a daylong seminar on Saturday, February 21, 9 am-3 pm, at the Extension Lindbrook Center in Westwood Village. This one-day seminar should fill fast, but there's still time to enroll at uclaextension.edu.

Eating Disorders and the Recovery Process presents an overview of the myriad purposes eating disorder symptoms serve, how to help patients grieve the loss of these symptoms, and what tools are needed to successfully navigate life without abusing food or the body. Co-coordinated by Sheri Barke, MPH, RD, of the Arthur Ashe Student Health and Wellness Center, and Patricia Pitts, PhD, executive director of The Bella Vista, the seminar's topics and speakers include "Grieving the Loss of the Eating Disorder," with Patricia Pitts; "Boundary Issues for Ongoing Recovery," with Joanna Poppink, MA, MFT; and "Neurophysiological Factors in Eating Disorders," with Monika Woolsey, MS, RD.

Enrollment is already underway. For more information on Eating Disorders and the Recovery Process, call (310) 825-7093, or visit uclaextension.edu for complete seminar description and online enrollment.

This seminar provides four hours of MFT/LCSW credit and is an elective in Extension's Certificate Program in Fitness Instruction. UCLA Extension is a Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Accredited Provider with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Registered dietitians (RDs) and dietetic technicians-registered (DTRs) will receive 4.0 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) for completion of the program.



Located in: Los Angeles, CA USA - on

Posted By: Chris Hartwell
URL: http://family-marriage-counseling.com
Comments:
Great site!

USA - on Monday, November 03, 2003 at 09:08:53 (PST)

Posted By: Susannah Rose
URL: http://www.geocities.com/susannah_rose7/index.html
Comments:
I think it is great that celebrities are using their status to help teens.
Susannah Rose

Personal Power thru Awareness

Located in: London, UK - on Sunday, October 26, 2003 at 22:17:02 (PST)

Posted By: vickie
Comments:
thanks for all the informtion it's nice to know help is out there

Located in: essex, england - on Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 03:37:54 (PDT)

Posted By: Car
Comments:
Joanna ~

Hello. After 17-years I am 5 weeks into my ED recovery and am now entering Phase II - Understanding the Origin of my Anxiety!!
It's a very scary time for me but I know that I can never go back to who I was so I'm forging ahead one day at a time.

I just want to thank you for the information that you have made available on your website. In fact, I have printed several of the articles to share with my husband to help him further understand my illness and am also bringing some of the material with me to discuss with my therapist.

Thanks again!
Car


USA - on Friday, September 12, 2003 at 06:07:15 (PDT)

Posted By: Emma E-Mail: < SisterNo@aol.com>
Comments:
Thank you for caring enough about people with eating disorders to make this recovery page and workbook freely available to all. Your recovery workbook is wonderful; it is really helping me to help myself to recover. I am proud of and trust in the inner strength that motivated me to search for help like this. Unlike other recovery books, you talk about how it actually feels to use food as an emotional safety blanket and how it actually works to block out unbearable experiences and unspeakable feelings. This is unique and very powerful. Again, thank you.

UK - on Sunday, August 24, 2003 at 14:04:13 (PDT)

Posted By: Robert Krause E-Mail: < bobkrause@pickyeatingadults.com>
URL: http://www.pickyeatingadults.com
Comments:
Most experts don't think being an Adult Picky eater is a real eating disorder. I have the problem and it's a big disorder to me. There are others out there and when searching the web for help we always end up on pages that cover every eating disorder except adult picky eating. I have set up this web site cause no one else has. I have searched for an adult picky eating web site for over 6 years. My long-term goal is to get this problem recognized for the eating disorder it is. It may be hard for normal eating people to understand what my life has been like. Stop and think for just a moment what you would do if you found your self in a world where the foods of choice were all repulsive to you. I often feel like some sort of alien with a terrible secret.



Located in: Virginia Beach, VA USA - on Monday, July 28, 2003 at 06:03:01 (PDT)

Posted By: Caroline E-Mail: < CRL8764532@Ames.org>
Comments:
RE: the note posted by Nancy D. You cannot control anorexia, by only having it 1/2 of the week. Nancy does "water fasts" more than 3 days each week. She eats less than 500 calories on some of her "eating" days. I tried to "maintain" using her program and I gave up and went for serious therapy. Nancy has "successfully" been a walking working loving skeleton for many years now if you listen to her story. Personally I feel you are still starving yourself due to your emotionally starved soul.
GET THERAPY> TALK TO AN E.D. THERAPIST.
NEVER listen to one who says they can LIVE with anorexic behaviors!

Located in: Ames, IA USA - on Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at 08:59:46 (PDT)

Posted By: Peggy Mousa E-Mail: < peggymousa810@hotmail.com>
Comments:
I'm 36 and I've had bouts of anorexia since I was 16. I only got diagnosed last year! I went through so much depression and attempted suicides. Why didn't it get recognised earlier? Was it because I never became emaciated as in the pics regularly shown of anorexics?

UK - on Thursday, June 19, 2003 at 13:43:41 (PDT)

Posted By: MaRisa E-Mail: < freeofbulimia@yahoo.com>
URL: http://www.freeofbulimia.com
Comments:
For years i've been free, drink whole milk, eat regularly healthy food and stay the same size.. that was only a dream 10 years ago when 10 yrs into the disorder of bulimia and anorexia,,, i thought i was forever destined to die a death so putrid next to a toilet bowl. God heals and i am here to tell you my story.. He will heal you too.

Located in: Fallbrook, CA USA - on Friday, May 30, 2003 at 08:51:53 (PDT)

Posted By: Andy Goodale E-Mail: < ansgoody_19@hotmail.com>
Comments:
I really think that this helps a lot of todays youths in the struggle to fight eating disorders. Having had one of these myself I know how hard it is to overcome this with out any additional help from anyone. Thank you!

Located in: Grimsby, Ont Canada - on Tuesday, May 27, 2003 at 17:39:13 (PDT)

Posted By: connie E-Mail: < connie3343@AOL.COM>
Comments:
I just went into this webpage looking for more info about anorexia. my son was diagnosed as having anorexia by his dr. but we haven't really gotten what we need from her to help him get better. I feel like I'm not alone now after reading some of the testimonies in your guest book. We are in desperate need of help, he is crying for help. I need to do something quick. Thank you Connie

Located in: HUDSON, MA USA - on Friday, May 23, 2003 at 20:19:34 (PDT)

Posted By: Josephine
Comments:
Dear Joanna,
thank you again for your helpful advises.
The list that you have send me is very extensive. I will send a letter to your discussion page
and I will tell about your website to the people that are my same situation.

Your website is such a great idea and gives you so much credit for it. It is a real inspiration
for people with this cunning disease.
Your workbook is such a fantastic solution for people in despair looking for an answer.

I'll keep my fingers crossed, hoping to get soon some professional help; in the meantime the sel-help group and your Triumphant Journey will keep me going.

You are such a great person.
All the best.



USA - on Tuesday, May 13, 2003 at 05:12:30 (CDT)

Posted By: There is Hope!!
Comments:
I suffered from anorexia nervosa when I was 11 and now 25 am devoting my life to helping others recover as I have!! It is a long complex process but there is hope!!! I am living proof!:)

Located in: Auburn, AL USA - on Saturday, May 03, 2003 at 19:53:51 (CDT)

Posted By: Jennifer Batman E-Mail: < myhappyfat@hotmail.com>
URL: http://myhappyfat.com
Comments:
Joanna,

Thank you so much for the link to your site. I have never been more proud. It's not enough to survive the disease that nearly killed me. I am so so glad to help others. It is my responsibility as a survivor. You have made my day. Again, thank you.

Jennifer Batman aka The Happy Fat Girl


Located in: New Orleans, LA USA - on Friday, April 25, 2003 at 12:40:42 (CDT)

Posted By: Bonnie
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your web site of Triumphant Journey. It has given me hope where there only seemed darkness.

I began my journey to understanding why I am who I am.....about two months ago....I am a 56 year old woman, a retired counsellor/therapist, who is only beginning to recognize the control issues in my life and how they have impacted every part of my life, and enabled me not to feel or or even recognize my emotions....was at the far end of a continuum...and working to bring more balance into my life. I am a Christian, who is trying to let God be in control, rather than me.. but trying to make healthy choices for myself as well. Sexual abuse and rejection as a child began a pattern of self-preservation/control and I obviously became very good at it, being successful, having good friends etc etc...but the cost has been high...and my weight (260...all time high 292) is proof of that...

Am looking forward to going through your material in detail. I began working with a therapist a couple of months ago, and it so tied in with what I read on your web site. I live in an area that has no treatment facilities for overeating, only for bulemia and anorexia.

Thanks again for sharing your message of hope....

Bonnie-----


USA - on Friday, April 25, 2003 at 00:35:47 (CDT)

Posted By: Nadine E-Mail: < nadinealwaystoolate@yahoo.de>
Comments:
Hi, I am a 19-year-old girl from Germany and I suffer from eating disorders for about 4 years. Generally I only visited german web sides but today I tried to find an abroad one. I've founded many sides, but your side is the most interesting and best one. As you can imagine I know much about eating disordes (as I said I am ill since 4 years) and I thought I would know everything one should know; but I've been suprised, that on your webside I've read things that still have been interesting for me / to me ...I don't know
I am sorry about my english, I hope, you have understood everything,
greets, Nadine

Germany - on Wednesday, April 02, 2003 at 12:08:47 (CST)

Posted By: Barbara
Comments:
My eating disorder began when I was 43. I had allowed my 25 year old son to have sexual intercourse with me while on holiday and not surprisingly I returned from the holiday feeling guilty and full of self-hatred. I suppose I had sex with him as a way of feeling wanted after the end of my fourth marriage and that he wanted sex for its own sake. On my return I began to binge and soon gained weight and found myself in a cycle of binge,crash diet,binge etc, with the binges becoming more and more extreme. Eventually I sought help by visiting a psychologist who helped me through my situation. She assured me that what I did on holiday was wrong but that I needed to move on and stop the cycle of self-hate and eating abuse. My eating has become much more controlled and I feel that Im now coming to accept my failings. I think this site is wonderful and I admire everything that you do to help people like myself.

Located in: dorchester, mass USA - on Friday, March 28, 2003 at 07:24:20 (CST)

Posted By: E
Comments:
Hi Joanna.

I just found your Cyberguide to Recovery from an Eating Disorder. I just want to say thank you. I know this will help me a lot. I actually was getting nervous as I read through it because I didn't want it to be something where you have to pay for the rest of the guide!

I'm not really sure what I'm keeping from myself. I've fought depression since I was about 4 years old! I used to use drugs and now more recently food. But anyway, I just wanted to say thank you for being such a wise and caring person! I know a lot of people who would benefit from reading your guide. Thank you!


Sincerely,
E


USA - on Monday, March 24, 2003 at 01:12:56 (CST)

Posted By: National Centre for Eating Disorders, UK E-Mail: < ncfed@globalnet.co.uk>
URL: http://www.eating-disorders.org.uk
Comments:
Congratulation on a well structured, easy to navigate through website, an invaluable resource for all sufferers from eating disorders. The National Centre for Eating Disorders, UK can offer practical help for all forms of eating disorders - all enquiries are welcom.

Located in: Esher, Surrey, UK - on Monday, March 17, 2003 at 10:27:59 (CST)

Posted By: Vicki E-Mail: < Vicki@endallthepain.com>
URL: http://www.endallthepain.com
Comments:
What an informative & helpful site! It's a chock full of resourceful stuff that I am sure will offer great support to so many.

I?d like to share something encouraging: I have completely overcome from years of serious self-injury, eating disorder and many psychiatric disorders & mental illness due to the result of a sexually abusive past.

Anyone who currently struggles: you can get through it, all things are possible!

Have an awesome day!

Located in: Florham Park, NJ USA - on Tuesday, March 11, 2003 at 17:10:24 (CST)

Posted By: Wendy Oliver-Pyatt, MD E-Mail: < wendy@getfedup.com>
URL: http://www.GetFedUp.com
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

Thank you for posting this letter. Anorexia: True Story in a Sister's Words. One of the things I think it can help to do is to provide a better understanding of the depth of the horror of an eating disorder. I especially think that mental health providers & doctors who are not familiar with eating disorders can be impacted. I think it is just too easy to say "Anorexia Nervosa", people need to be more inside of what it is like.

Thanks,

Wendy

Located in: Santa Barbara, CA USA - on Sunday, March 09, 2003 at 18:04:17 (CST)

Posted By: R
Comments:

Dear Joanna,

I am a psychologist at a middle school on the East Coast of the United States. I initially stumbled upon your website in a search to help my self get out of my overeating problems.

I was struck by the sensitivity and caring you have for the overeater. I have seen or, now that I think about it, possibly imagined so many people just turn away from the overeating person with frustration disgust or annoyance.

Worst of is myself, I am very tough on myself, and on other overweight people, though outwardly I appear confident and kind to myself and others.

I request your in-patient list as a resource to myself in a professional capacity. I have not identified any students with eating disorders yet this year, but I would like to see what resources are out there.

I am also curious if you know of any therapists in private practice here that have the same kind of empathy for an overweight patient.

Thank you and continued good luck in your work,

R


Located in: East Coast, USA - on Wednesday, March 05, 2003 at 22:58:02 (CST)

Posted By: sarge E-Mail: < sarge200@mail.com>
URL: http://www.1heluva.com/cgi-bin/join.cgi?refer=15072
Comments:
nice site

USA - on Tuesday, March 04, 2003 at 03:53:15 (CST)

Posted By: Judith Ruskay Rabinor, Ph.D. E-Mail: < astarvingmadness@aol.com>
URL: http://astarvingmadness.com
Comments:
Wonderful site. Information is very thorough and the many helpful links makes this a great resource. Thoroughly looks at all aspects of eating disorders and will certainly be bookmarked by many sufferers as well as professionals. Bravo!

Located in: Lido Beach, NY USA - on Friday, February 28, 2003 at 12:14:08 (CST)

Posted By: D. Miller E-Mail: < dmiller91@mailbag.com>
Comments:
Excellent, excellent stuff. Thank you.


Located in: Madison, WI USA - on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at 13:57:43 (CST)

Posted By: Woody Haynes E-Mail: < Overeater-beaters-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>
URL: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Overeater-beaters/
Comments:
I have read many no-diet books over the years and was really impressed (and helped) by the Triumphant Journey Workbook! Thank you, Joanna Poppink, for making this information available on-line. I have shared this link with members of the online support group that I am a member of called "Overeater-beaters" ... those who are going through the workbook are telling others about the book - it's very insightful and practical! ... I have personally been helped so much just by the information on "Stopping Overeating" (I was eating in the late evenings after everyone was asleep, the book gave me some advise on ways to stop and explore the "why's" of this behaviour); I was encouraged and am continuing through the entire workbook. Also, I have chosen a few of the positive affirmations that you suggested.

All the best and God Bless!

Woody Haynes



USA - on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at 00:06:32 (CST)

Posted By: Gail Cook
Comments:
I feel as though I have found "home" reviewing this site. I am new to accepting that I have -- and have had for my entire life -- an eating disorder. Thank you for simply being.

Located in: Garland, TX USA - on Monday, February 24, 2003 at 16:18:14 (CST)

Posted By: ella satine E-Mail: < ellasatine@hotmail.com>
Comments:
i've only looked at parts of this site, but i really liked it- especially "the number 1 reason" piece. i sent that to one of my best friends who has trouble understanding why i do wat i do. it hlped me as well. i'm 16 and i've been anorexic for five years, including pro-ana for about one and a half. i had a pro-ana website which got over a thousand visitors a week but it got deleted by the server. i go in and out of wanting to recover, i've lost so much (friends, boyfriends etc). i used to b able to fast for days on end, but yesterday i found myself gettign really sick after only one day. it scared me, cos it was liek i was going to pass out or sumthin? im rambling now! but neway thanks for the site. its good

Located in: sydney, australia - on Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 21:44:53 (CST)

Posted By: Joanna Poppink E-Mail: < joanna@poppink.com>
URL: http://www.poppink.com
Comments:

Dear poppink.com Readers,

Carolyn's post concerning my comments about taking nude photographs of anorexic patients refers to an article, "Anorexia and Photo Therapy," written by Mark Stuart Ellison for Suite 101 and published July 11, 2000. I am quoted extensively in this article concerning what I consider an extreme approach to a treatment fraught with possible dangers to the patient.

You can find the article at: http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/anorexia/43436"/article.cfm/anorexia/43436

Thank you for your comment, Carolyn. And thank you for bringing that interview to my attention and to poppink.com readers' attention.

Best wishes to all,

Joanna

Joanna Poppink, L.M.F.T.
Psychotherapist in private practicespecializing in eating disorders
10573 W. Pico Bl. #20 L.A., CA 90064 U.S.A. (310) 474-4165

By requesting information, resources or referrals you understand and agree that Joanna Poppink, M.F.T. is not responsible for the services, or lack thereof, of any of the providers or services listed in this post or on her website. You also understand and agree that this communication and the contents of any of her written material are not psychotherapy nor a substitute for psychotherapy nor to be construed as supervision.

Located in: Los Angeles, CA USA - on Friday, February 14, 2003 at 16:32:03 (CST)

Posted By: Carolyn E-Mail: < neser@telkomsa.net>
Comments:
Thank you for your excellent comments on taking and showing of nude pictures to recovering self starvers .. it needed to be said.

Located in: Johannesburg, South Africa - on Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 15:27:27 (CST)

Posted By: H
Comments:

Dear Joanna,

I actually found a therapist to talk to you from your website. I don't know why I was having so much trouble. In any event, I have an appointment scheduled for tomorrow. Thank you and I will visit your sites and keep you posted. Thanks again!

USA - on Monday, February 10, 2003 at 11:57:14 (CST)

Posted By: L
Comments:

Dear Joanna,

I was fortunate enough to find your cyberguide while looking for anything that would help me "control my eating". I have been a self-medicator since childhood -- initally it was food, and became cigarettes in my teens( which helped with weight, to a certain extent). There was a time in my life that alcohol was used to excess, as well.

I was most struck by the questions regarding childhood memories; with very few frozen, visual recollections, I have no memory of the details of my childhood at all.

I discovered in my 40s that low-carbohydrate eating worked very effectively for me, and was able to drop to my lowest weight since puberty. This weight loss coincided with a highly emotional separation from my (current) significant other. Upon our reconciliation, we mutually decided to quit smoking. I am happy to say that I have not smoked in almost five years -- but my weight skyrocketed back to its original high, plus a little, for a total gain of sixty pounds. While my SO has been very loving and accepting, my sense of failure and anger was monumental.

Binges, of the very things that I knew were contributing to what is now nearly a pre-diabetic state, were quite literally uncontrollable (raw cookie dough was my particular addiction).

Welbutrin assisted with mood, but did nothing to assist with the bingeing.

It's much too late to make this long story short, but the essence is that, since finding your site and downloading the program, I have not had a single eating frenzy, nor have I had to struggle against one. Without doing any of the work, (which I know still has to be done), I have dropped a full size since January 14. I have not felt, as I previously have MY ENTIRE LIFE, that I am in conflict with my own body and desires. I have not felt that being unable to eat everything that appeals to me is some sort of punishment for bad character or transgressions of some kind.

I have yet to dig deeply into "the questions", but I feel able to address them without panic. I have not experienced the self-hatred that used to follow me everywhere. I found that the most significant issue for me is "tasks undone", and am, for the first time in a long time, in control of my work efforts, and close to satisfaction over many household projects.

There is much more work to do, and I am aware that this has been barely more than three wekks; but the three weeks have been transformative. Thank you more than I can tell you for the hope.

Sincerely,

USA - on Friday, February 07, 2003 at 21:44:05 (CST)

Posted By: Abigail Natenshon, MA E-Mail: < anatenshon@empoweredparents.com>
URL: http://www.empoweredparents.com
Comments:
Joanna,
Thank you for your wonderful service to the community of patients and professionals who deal with eating disorders. Through the optimistic information and support you provide, victims learn that through effective and timely diganosis and treatment, they can recover.... and that with healing, they become fully capable of regaining access to themselves.

Located in: Highland Park, Il USA - on Thursday, February 06, 2003 at 22:59:26 (CST)

Posted By: E
Comments:



I am writing in regards to the story, I am not a child, but I am so afraid. I would like to say about the story that it seems to describe me right to a "T." I am currently mind boggled, because I don't know where to start or where to go and what I need to do to overcome my mental and physical issue. Anyway, this story was a great story and I thought that you should know this.

USA - on Thursday, February 06, 2003 at 20:05:18 (CST)

Posted By: Glenda E-Mail: < tilly@unitelc.com>
Comments:
I am 49 yrs of age and have had a eating disorder for years. I have had two qastric-bypasses and still binge and purge. The article in the psychotherapy section let me know that maybe I am eating to numb the pain from everything. Any comments would help tremendously.

Located in: Park Rapids, MN 5647, MN USA - on Wednesday, February 05, 2003 at 22:43:25 (CST)

Posted By: Sarah
Comments:

Dear Joanna,

I am writing to say thank you for putting "Triumphant journey " on line. I have worked in psychiatric services for 20 years and have an eating problem. This looks like a guide that I can relate to and work with - thank you so much.

Sarah

USA - on Tuesday, February 04, 2003 at 23:43:38 (CST)

Posted By: Joanna Poppink E-Mail: < joanna@poppink.com>
URL: poppink.com
Comments:
Dear Jenny,

Your friend is in trouble and her illness is putting a burden of stress on you. Please know that her illness is difficult to treat. Professionals need a lot of training and a lot of experience before they can begin to make progress with a person who suffers from bulimia and anorexia. So, please, don't expect too much from yourself. The best you can do is to take care of yourself and ask for help. Talk to your parents, your school counselor, your teacher, your spiritual advisor or whoever is the adult you feel you can trust.

Please read the articles on the poppink.com website that are written to help people in your situation.

For Teens: When You Discover a Friend is Bulimic or Anorexic
http://www.poppink.com/teens.html

How To Help a Friend Who May Have An Eating Disorder
http://www.poppink.com/friend.html

You also might consider sharing your situation and story on the poppink.com eating disorder recovery discussion board at http://www.poppink.com/discuss/

Your experiences and opinions may be of help to others, and you may find more support for you.
Please remember, staying healthy yourself is an excellent and powerful way of encouraging a healthy way of living for your friend and others around you.

warm wishes to you,

Joanna

Joanna Poppink, L.M.F.T.
Psychotherapist in private practicespecializing in eating disorders
10573 W. Pico Bl. #20 L.A., CA 90064 U.S.A. (310) 474-4165

By requesting information, resources or referrals you understand and agree that Joanna Poppink, M.F.T. is not responsible for the services, or lack thereof, of any of the providers or services listed in this post or on her website. You also understand and agree that this communication and the contents of any of her written material are not psychotherapy nor a substitute for psychotherapy nor to be construed as supervision.

Located in: Los Angeles, CA USA - on Tuesday, February 04, 2003 at 21:57:11 (CST)

Posted By: Jenny E-Mail: < jch_06@yahoo.com>
Comments:
Hello, i am only 15 and i have a friend who might be anorexix and bulimic. I am not sure what I should do. I am Really worried about her. Please help I don't know what might happen to her. She only weighs 95 pounds and she is only 15 1/2. Please help me and my friend. Please e-mail me ASAP.

Located in: K-Town, Ohio USA - on Tuesday, February 04, 2003 at 21:37:52 (CST)

Posted By: Tammy Croy McMillian, MSW, ACSW E-Mail: < info.trilliumarc@core.com>
URL: http://www.trilliumarc.com
Comments:
Joanna: Thanks for taking the time to post educational information for the Academy for Eating Disorders as this brings attention to all the issues. I have learned so much from your comments and the information you share with the professional community. Your website is very nice.
Thanks,
Tammy Croy McMillian, MSW, ACSW, CSW
Eating Disorder Specialist
2nd Year Doctoral Student, Loyola University at Chicago
Private Practice, Boyne City, MI




Located in: Boyne City, MI USA - on Tuesday, February 04, 2003 at 18:37:12 (CST)

Posted By: Mary E-Mail: < mgee@isomers.com>
Comments:
I'm emailing both from the perspective of one working in the ED field and one who has had to deal with anorexia in the past. I know that when I was
entrenched - it was comforting to know that there WERE resources out there should I chose to reach out. Having been in recovery with a fantastic therapist via my HMO - I can only hope that these resources are available to those in need.

I work in the mental health field as well and understand the new regulations that have been issued about patient confidentiality and ethics. Without a history of how (for lack of a better word) - "HOW" functions - let along among the ED field, I will have to adamantly state that your list of ED providers has been an invaluable esource - esp. since you include a disclaimer at the end of your emails and on your website.

Lastly, I understand all of the politics, etc. - but at some point we do have to ask ourselves - where is the line drawn between helping an individual vs. protecting ourselves because the bureaucracy became too much. We all know how tricky dealing with an ED can be - esp. the games
that are played when a patient is still in the denial phase and that EDs can be life threatening. It's great that we have the regulations in place to protect patients - but we also need to consider - at what point do they become more cumbersome than helpful.

Warmly,
Mary

Located in: San Franciso, CA USA - on Sunday, February 02, 2003 at 23:29:54 (CST)

Posted By: N
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

Thank you for your eating disorder recovery discussion on your site. I always find comfort & inspiration in hearing about other's struggles and successes in recovery.

N

Located in: San Diego, CA USA - on Sunday, February 02, 2003 at 00:14:09 (CST)

Posted By: Carl Mills Jr E-Mail: < CoolManCarl@msn.com>
Comments:
I was just wondering what I can do to help my girlfriend who is suffering from bulimia.I know that there is not much I can do but be there for her but even that doesn't seem like enough to help her.If anyone can help me out-please let me know.Carl

Located in: Phoenixville , PA USA - on Thursday, January 30, 2003 at 17:58:21 (CST)

Posted By: Geri-Ann Galanti E-Mail: < ggalanti@attbi.com>
URL: http://ggalanti.com
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

I want to thank you for all your helpful comments and insights regarding culture and psychotherapy. You have no idea how much I appreciate it. The material you provided me will be finding its way into the book, "Handbook of Primary Care Psychology," which is being published by Oxford University Press.

Thanks again!

Geri-Ann
Located in: Venice, CA USA - on Thursday, January 30, 2003 at 00:05:34 (CST)

Posted By: s
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

I just want to add my thanks to the many I am sure you have already received -- your article was insightful and straight-forward, and a real help to someone who is constantly looking for information regarding her own disorder.

I especially felt you were right on when telling people that their overeating is not going to stop if they try and "get rid" of their feelings. I think that too often people are told they "shouldn't" feel the things they do, therefore that sensitivity is wrong.

Anyways. Thanks. Good stuff. :)
-s

USA - on Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 16:49:41 (CST)

Posted By: D
Comments:

Hi my name is D. I am 21 and have succesfully not been well bulimic for 2 days now.
Your site is really beautiful to me.
I dont even know you but now i am reading these really nice affirmations after i finish eating a meal or when im about to go to sleep.
Your website really helps me.
What motivated you to put this page up?
Its really a great website. God Bless You :)
And goodluck in everything.. D



USA - on Monday, January 20, 2003 at 17:40:30 (CST)

Posted By: Darlene
Comments:


I loved reading your Triumphant Journey cyberspace information. Thank you for publishing this.

Darlene

USA - on Monday, January 20, 2003 at 17:13:36 (CST)

Posted By: Lauri
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

Thank you a thousand thanks for sending us your in-patient treatment list.

We found a place for our daughter and after three weeks she is doing better.

It's a wonderful thing you are doing with that list.

Thank you from my husband and me for our daughter.

Lauri

WI USA - on Friday, January 17, 2003 at 23:10:43 (CST)

Posted By: Nancy Dundatscheck E-Mail: < sacredbody@hotmail.com>
Comments:
I have learned to control my anorexia . I live with it, stay thin, enjoy a good sex life, and when I feel faint or mentally confused, I just eat more, and I eat a healthy vegan diet. In the past I had to hide my anorexia from people, but now I am honest and out of the closet. You can live an active life with anorexia. I have been doing it for over a decade now. You must control it not let it control you--if you are lying about it, it is controlling you.
Nancy D. Ames, Iowa.

USA - on Friday, January 17, 2003 at 07:18:40 (CST)

Posted By: G
Comments:
Dear Joanna,

Thank you for writing, "Anorexia: I'm not a child and I'm afraid."

I am 20 years old and still anorexic. Your article is a perfect description of me.

Actually growing up and being an adult terrifies me.I am so afraid to deal with real life. Yes, I have a social life and yes, I have a good job, but that has nothing to do with helping me not be afraid.

My anorexia started when I was about 16 or 17. I've been through several inpatient programs and after the last one I thought I was cured.

Lately, I'm exercising four hours a day and living on fruit and dry cereal.

Thank you for the chance to write to you. I'm glad to know that at least one person understands how I feel.

People around here don't know much about eating disorders. My mother and father are proud that I look good and have a good life. I can't bring myself to tell them that I'm not as healthy as they think and that I am dying on the inside.

Thank you.

G


Arkansas USA - on Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 18:59:31 (CST)

Posted By: Michelle Tichy E-Mail: < myhsthe@yahoo.com>
Comments:
Hello, I stumbled upon your website in my efforts to find resources for myself and others in my family seeking to recover from eating disorder issues. Thank you.

Located in: Minneapolis, MN USA - on Tuesday, January 14, 2003 at 00:45:58 (CST)

Posted By: Ms. Shironda Brown E-Mail: < shirondad@yahoo.com>
URL: http://www.shirondad@yahoo.com
Comments:
Dear Ms.Poppink,

I enjoyed reading your article that you wrote for the Counseling.com web site relating to eating disorders, I thought it was absolutely wonderful. I researched and presented information on two common known eating disorder which are Anorexia nervosa,and Bulimia nervosa.

In preparing for my presentation,I presented my presentation to a mix population of students that consist fo Freshmen,Juniors,and Seniors located in a residential dormitory on the University campus where I am employed.

After preparing and doing intensive research from various of articles, I found that the minority population is being affected with eating disorders,especially across Universities,and College campus.

In addition to finding out the alarming news,I immediately wanted to target College African American students,and share with them the vital information that I discovered.

Some of the information that I discuss and distributed consisted of telling students about various of symptoms,warning signs and how to recieve medical attention or how to contact their local health care providers like for instance "Counselors".

Therefore, I was wondering if you could provide me with additional information to distribute to the college students, in your information I hope that you provide me with therapeutic intervention,prevention methods,and therapeutic activities.

In addition to my first request, I hope that you could provide me with techniques,and procedurein publishing articles relating to this subject matter.

The reason that I would like to publish this article is simply because I would like all women of color to be aware of this disorder and how is making a harmful impact on our daily lives,and how it is important to treat the mind and body right.

If you care like I do take a stand with me by sharing your thoughts and expertise on eating disorders.

Thank you for your time. If you are interested in responding please e-mail me at shirondad@yahoo.com

Ms.Shironda D.Brown
Professional Counselor

Located in: Albany, Ga USA - on Friday, January 10, 2003 at 13:28:09 (CST)

Posted By: Anna Paterson E-Mail: < Anna@anorectic.fsnet.co.uk>
URL: http://www.annapaterson.com
Comments:
I just wanted to say that I found this site to be very informative and supportive towards eating disorder sufferers. It is very important to get information out about these much misunderstood illnesses and to show that there is always hope for recovery. As a recovered anorexic, I used to believe that full recovery was not actually possible but with the support of sites such as this, people can see that although recovery is never easy, it is so worthwhile.

Located in: London, England - on Friday, January 10, 2003 at 07:12:45 (CST)

Posted By: S
Comments:

Dear Joanna:

Bless you for your efforts in educating and helping in the recovery of individuals with an eating disorders. I have been battling with bulimia for the past 2 years, and am exploring various treatment options.

Happy New Year.

S

USA - on Wednesday, January 08, 2003 at 01:25:31 (CST)

Posted By: V
Comments:

Dear Joanna

i just read your article, The Number One Reason for Developing an Eating Disorder. i've never read anything on an eating disorder before that so perfectly described me and the path my life has taken. it explains so many of my actions in the past. i used to not eat, i could never lose enough weight. then i had my daughter and it was like a switch flipped in my head, i could never eat enough. Just that word enough seems so powerful now. Thank you!!

V.

USA - on Tuesday, January 07, 2003 at 22:01:02 (CST)

Posted By: Chad
Comments:


I'd like to say thanks to Joanna for posting the DSM-IV-TR information on this site. I needed the information for an Abnormal Psychology class, and it is impossible to get the DSM-IV-TR at the school library. This website was my saviour :) I've got to get going and finish my paper, but thanks again!

Chad


USA - on Saturday, January 04, 2003 at 21:24:57 (CST)

Posted By: S
Comments:

Dear Joanna,

I just wanted to thank you for your article on Anorexia. I suffered from depression and anorexia in my teens, only then there was no name for it. I developed digestive problems which are with me still today at the age of 50. But I wanted to say that I could really relate to what you said in the article about having it so together on the outside and being so shaky inside and so isolated.

S


USA - on Monday, December 23, 2002 at 23:11:54 (CST)

Posted By: E
Comments:
Dear Joanna

I have been on your website for most of the evening, and have found it to be very helpful and informative. I am anxious to follow the guidelines and to keep track of my situations/triggers. It's remarkable how much you've nailed all the feelings and situations down. It is encouraging to know that I am not alone, let alone as weak as I'd imagined.

E

CA USA - on Monday, December 23, 2002 at 15:32:15 (CST)

Posted By: Margy Town E-Mail: < margy_r@hotmail.com>
Comments:
Found this interesting I am hopiing to get some help from the email i sent.

Located in: Randolph, N.Y. USA - on Friday, December 20, 2002 at 20:01:53 (CST)

Posted By: Peter Shepherd E-Mail: < shepherd@trans4mind.com>
URL: http://www.trans4mind.com
Comments:
The issues that underlie eating disorders are the same that affect many areas of our lives. The advice that Joanna offers - so expertly in my opinion - therefore is of vital interest to anyone interested in their personal growth. I am delighted to recommend her site, and in particular the brilliant 'Triumphant Journey' self-help program, at Tools for Transformation.

Located in: Clermont Ferrand, 63130 France - on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 at 16:45:29 (CST)

Posted By: DIANE MINOR E-Mail: < DMINOR@RHSNET.ORG>
Comments:
I HAVE FINALLY SOMEWHAT RECOVERED FROM ANOREXIA. I AM ALIVE AND SOMEWHAT WELL. I WOULD LIKE TO HELP OTHER PEOPLE.

Located in: ROCKFORD, IL USA - on Friday, December 06, 2002 at 15:00:16 (CST)

Posted By: Radhika Anand E-Mail: < radhikakandy@yahoo.com>
Comments:
Thank you, Joanna.

Located in: Atlanta, GA USA - on Saturday, November 30, 2002 at 21:00:39 (CST)

Posted By: Rich E-Mail: < gagetowndog@sparklecity.zzn.com>
URL: http://gagetownmichigan.com
Comments:
just surfin and reading.

Located in: Gagetown, mi USA - on Friday, November 29, 2002 at 16:50:19 (CST)

Posted By: Shie Rozow E-Mail: < shie@the-bright-side.org>
URL: http://www.the-bright-side.org
Comments:
Great articles, very well layed out site.

Thank you.

Located in: Los Angeles, CA USA - on Monday, November 25, 2002 at 14:36:44 (CST)

Posted By: National Council of Psychotherapists (UK)
URL: http://www.natcouncilofpsychotherapists.org.uk
Comments:

Dear Joanna,

We are happy to tell you that we have recently received a letter from one of our members to say thanks for the timely appearance of your article on eating disorders in our Journal. He had just been asked for advice on eating disorders by students at a local girls school and many of them have commented favourably on your work...

United Kingdom - on Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 15:53:57 (CST)

Posted By: Michael O'Sullivan E-Mail: < info@health-concern.com>
URL: http://www.health-concern.com
Comments:
A truely excellent site - I will be recommending it far and wide...

United Kingdom - on Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 15:45:54 (CST)

Posted By: sandy E-Mail: < fire_fly_sandy@yahoo.ca>
Comments:
Theres a hope to losing weight and starving your self or doing theres what you call to much excerising, im a lazy person when it comes to excerising i walk 2 miles aday maybe 3 times a week and i lost 40 pounds i finded that since i lost all this weight in four months i founded i ate a little less and trying to lose weight came easy for me with out even trying and i lose it sinceable to with no diet aids. so if you like walking every step counts bye

Located in: salisbury, Ca Canada - on Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 14:11:50 (CST)

Posted By: D
Comments:


hi joanna...

i just read your article about your point of view as a psychotherapist
on eating disorders, and i guess i just wanted to say thank you for trying
to understand...

i sometimes can admit to myself that i have this problem,
that getting thinner and thinner day by day is only going to kill me, but
most of the time i just deny it all together. the one time i tried to see
a therapist, i heard him say on his way into the room that he couldn't
understand why these god damn kids insisted on starving themselves. i
clammed up and never went back -- i only went because my soccer coach made
me. and do you know what he said to me the next day?

"D, i always thought you were too smart for this sort of thing. of everyone in this
school, you are the girl who has it all: grades and friends and looks and
a great athlete. with so many other kids looking up to you, you owe it to
them to be a little smarter."

i remember it word for word. and i thought, hell, i only have to finish
out this season with him, i'll be graduating soon anyway.

the "you're too smart for this" thing killed me -- did he really think i
don't know that what i do to my body every day is killing me?

but that knowledge can't erase the fear of food and calories, and it
can't eliminate the panic that arises every time i eat more than the
alloted number of calories or foods that aren't safe....

yes, i'm tearing up my throat and my stomach and physically
exhausting myself with every time i stick a finger down my throat,
yes, i'm tearing my muscles apart rather than strengthening them
when i refuse to stop exercising until i literally collapse,
yes, i know all of this, and no, i still cannot stop. nor do i
want to, except in those rare moments when i feel i cannot continue to
exist in this hopeless cycle much longer. most of the time i just feel
that i would not know how to live if i wasn't living like this, and it's a
really lonely world that i have created.

(see, i admit it -- for a second or two, anyway -- that i have created
this mess for myself.) but i wanted to say that it's nice to know
that not everyone is quite so quick to tell me that i am a selfish
little girl for doing this to everyone around me.

it's nice to know that someone recognizes i'm being as courageous as i can,
even if that courage isn't strong enough to let go of the obsession i live in.

so this is just to say thanks, from a nineteen year old girl, with a
problem that she knows she is too smart for...


D

USA - on Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 13:01:01 (CST)

Posted By: H
Comments:
FINALLY Some one who understands

Dear Joanna,

I've been in therapy on and off for years, and most recently for a year (specifically for
weight reduction, behavior modification anxiety)

I cancelled my session yesterday because I've been stuck in this feeling of not being understood. The less I feel heard the stronger my desire to return to bingeing and purging.

Recently I've been burglarized, fired from my job and the victim of countless privacy invasion by my ex-boss. For 2 months I have binged and cried, complained to my friends and therapist about not being able to move forward. I keep telling them "Sure I can always get more material things, get new job, change my number..." But I feel VIOLATED
just ripped wide open, exposed with no shelter and trapped. All I've done for 2 months since the burglary and termination is EAT, think about food, and (starting yesterday) began to think like I did when I was throwing up. Like punishing myself and getting RID OF IT. Haven't done this in years. I keep CRYING OUT "I feel invaded, I feel violated". Why can't I get over this?

I felt guilty that my problems are insignificant compared to real life. So, the guilt made me stuff myself and the recent addition of 20lbs in 2 months propels self loathing, which increases my isolation. The rage about all of this makes me stuff myself when all I really want to be is held and UNDERSTOOD!

In therapy, there are no dots connecting my seductive behavior at work, self loathing and compulsive eating and my anger/frustration come from VIOLATION of childhood boundaries. Each topic is separate, neat and compartmentalized. I feel like I'm confusing her when I make correlations about my childhood. I have such a CLASSIC profile for eating disorders.

I don't recall any parental sex abuse, just neglect-really painful to admit. My mom was softspoken, shy, sort of helpless and emotionally absent. I remember protecting her and speaking up for her since I was 10. I ate and ate to cover up the anger and by 11/12years began secretly throwing up.

In therapy she gives me a choice either my (ex-)job or my food journal. I always have a planned binge after therapy. I don't want to insult my therapist. So I told myself I was being petty and irresponsible about feeling "loss." Just act cheery and move forward find a new job, stop being lazy and lose the weight. Tell her what she wants to hear that "I'm searching the web and e-mailing resumes" I leave the office looking productive and
optimistic on the outside and worthless and a crybaby on the inside.

I've been in tears for days, I cancelled therapy and searched the web for a support group for victims of theft. I found your site sobbing violently as I read EVERY word of "The Number One Reason For Developing an Eating Disorder"

I prayed and cried TO JUST BE UNDERSTOOD. I ate and punished myself because I felt I didn't matter, my creativity was a farce and I wasn't valid. My boundaries HAVE ALWAYS been exceeded-2 years ago I slept with my old therapist and to this day I feel
responsible. NOW I FEEL UNDERSTOOD, I am not a freak or a fluke. My reaction to my life especially of late is that of one who has been INVADED.

How in the world did one page on the net exceed 1 year in therapy? I don't feel hungry or angry I just feel gratitude! Just a mental safety in knowing someone out there knows the layers of this thing.

When I walked in my apt found my belongings gone,
felt like a little girl open and exposed the internal pain was eerily familiar.

How do I ask my therapist to be more comprehensive in her approach in us getting me well?

H

ps

I'm happy to see boundary issues that include other forms of invasion along with sexual abuse in this disorder's profile.




USA - on Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 08:51:11 (CST)

Posted By: N
Comments:
i am responding to your: Anorexica when you are not in your teens

After reading your article it made me think a lot about what I was actually doing to myself. It made me think for a while and I finally decided to get
help so I could recover.

I cannot thank you enough for your article it helped me on to the rode of recovery.

_N

USA - on Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 14:21:18 (CST)

Posted By: Tiffany
Comments:
Thankyou so much for your website.It has helped me a lot,and at a time when I feel like I need a lot of support.I'm struggling with an eating disorder,and have been for quite sometime.I don't know how to fully overcome it,and I also find it difficult to accept help from the one person who has helped me so much.Its hard to accept her help,although I really want to deep