it starts with loving oneself - which is often the hardest thing to do. Being in a relationship just for the sake of feeling accepted is not the best thing so don't rush into anything.

You will hate hearing this, but 19 is very young and it is not unusual to be a virgin at that age.

I'm glad to hear you are making the effort to get healthier. Yes it takes a while. Have you asked your doctor how he might be of help (I take a medication that jacks up my metabolism. I was gaining weight rapidly and it is helping to curb that).

I know it sounds girly, but sometimes a new haircut makes me feel better. When I'm really down I get my nails done. It perks me up too and for a little while I feel better about my appearance.

My own self acceptance comes and goes. I am overweight and very self-conscious about it. Sometimes I have to force myself to get out and even then I worry about what people think - but I won't let that control me. I also won't let that make me settle when a man does give me attention.