[Anna_Natalia]

I have severe depression. And i want so much to be thin. I think that maybe i wouldn't be AS depressed if i was thinner. I had recently gained a lot of weight because of depression. and i noticed that whenever i was thinner, people treated me with more respect. people liked me more. and most of all, i liked myself more. i've been really watching what i eat but it's been so hard excersizing because my energy is totally zapped. i'm sad, but i wish i could get angry so i could get motivated. i cry everyday because i'm so unhappy with myself, and i know that only i can change myself but i don't have much hope.

[cajun]

Anna, take baby steps first. Start slow. Don't try to do it so fast. If you try to do too muck too soon, you will accomplish nothing. Cut salt out of your diet, use a salt substitute. And drink lots of water. Don't eat at fast food places, and try to eat before 7pm. Also make sure you eat all three meals. Even if they are small ones. That works for me. Good Luck

[desperado]

((((((((((((AnnaNat)))))))))))))

I hear you, gf.

I am severely depressed too & whenever I get this way, I usually put on b/w 30-50 lbs...it is nuts. (I am usually very active & in shape). I don't have any energy in this state, either, which is very, very frustrating.

I know what you mean about being happier @ a much lower weight.

Caj is right. Baby steps....that's how I do it. I always manage to lose the weight, but exercise is a BIG part. Start w/ walking 3 x/week for at least 1/2 - 45 mins. Go slowly @ first - as slowly as you need to. Then, gradually build up to an hour 5-6 x/week, if you can. And I know you can, b/c I've done it.....so anyone can do it. Walking for an hour after a meal apparently stabolizes your blood sugar, which will help w/ your appetite.

You can gradually try to add in jogging & build up to running a few x/week...that really melts the pounds off (for me, anyway) & helps w/ my anxiety a bit. Makes me feel a sense of accomplishment after a run, too. And sometimes it helps clear my head....I always take my Discman & crank the tunes......probably going deaf, but don't care - it's worth it. Go as slowly as you need to - that's what I do - tortoise always wins.

Also, eat lots of fibre.........lots of fruit & vegies........drink TONS of H2O (speeds up your metabolism) & try to cut all of your portions in 1/2. Leave kitchen immediately after eating & try to distract yourself.

Hope that helps. Good luck, AN.

Desy