I am directly addressing the chronological history of my issue b/c history repeats itself, therefore it's worth taking a look at the big full picture. My history of binge eating dates back to age 7. I remember my dear late Dad was chopping off pieces of cheese and sausage and I just kept running back for more and more. I've looked at consecutive school photos of me and the proof is there: by age 8 I had been a chubby bunny.

I remember looking at photos of myself and seeing myself in home videos and not liking how fat I looked. By age 11, I decided to focus on more physical activity and consuming less soda. That helped me shed some of the fat and then I had my growth spurt; and by age 13 I was mostly healthy. However, At age 15 the fat was returning, but I fought it off again by studying well and doing well in my nutrition class. Resulting in my improved accurate knowledge of how to eat as healthily as possible.

From ages 17 to 20, I remember being obsessive-compulsive about exercise; and still encountering the occasional binge and trying to justify it only deeply knowing the truth: that there is no appropriate justification for the behavior. I would attempt to discuss it with my psychiatrist but she directed the therapy more around my issue of bereavement and depression.

At age 22, I finally took a more proactive step in my life and went to weekly meetings of support group therapy. I finally felt like the seriousness of my ed was being addressed; yet I still had episodes. A few months later, I relocated and didn't take initiative to immediately seek out another support group due to being in denial and thinking maybe I could control the compulsions.

To this day, currently 26 yrs old, and the struggle is not any different. I still easily have seconds and thirds; and eat entire boxes of cookies. It's not good and it's taking it's toll. I have lumbago, so the extra 20 lbs only adds more pain.

In my most recent visit w/ my therapist I discussed my ed and she suggested I do research on intervention. I am thankful to have found PC b/c now I can share my real painful story and relate to others. It only gets worse the more you try to sweep it under the rug.

I am aware the binges are triggered by unstable emotions, stress, and anxiety; but I'm not sure if there is something more to my problem that I am just currently unaware of. That's why I'm thankful to be sharing and finding a supportive community of others whom are willing to share their story and journey to recovery. My journey to recovery never really seems to begin since time and time again I encounter frequent relapses. Feel free to share your personal experience and what steps and processes you are taking to heal and recover. Thank you.