trying to lose over 100 lbs.. looking for support

[notgivingup]

Hey I am new to fit bit and I have about 128 lbs to lose before I am considered in a healthy weight range.. I used to be in a healthy weight range back in 2009.. it's been a long time but I got diagnosed with schizophrenia and BPD and the medication for that made me gain A LOT of weight then I also started binge eating to cope.. looking for ways to break the habit and to get off the couch and take more steps.. I just recentently moved ten min from the gym with no car.. so now I can walk to the gym, workout and walk home.. I just need the motivation to keep it going. Thanks for your support!!

[kgentile2]

I started my journey on December 8, 2014 at 303 lbs. Currently, I'm at 236 lbs, and still have 86 lbs to get to my goal. I don't ever remember being 236 lbs, and even after losing almost 70 it's so hard for me to mentally transform. I know I've changed, and I can see that I've changed, but when I go to the store, I still go for the size 24 jeans (I'm now a size 18/20). I still go for the size 3/4 tops (I'm now a size 1/2). We can do this!!!

[GrammyPam]

Almost 5 years ago I lost 75# at age 63 and have been keeping it off (first time ever!).  I worked with a Health Coach.  So I am paying it forward by helping others learn all the habits to reach and maintain their weight long-term.  I love sharing what worked for me.  I got my FitBit in January and love it! It helps keep me accountable as I have been trying to rebuild muscle and move my body after the weight loss.  I lost the weight quickly and safely without exercise, but knew I needed to incorporate this very important habit.  So I now work out with a CrossFit trainer and am getting stronger.  Doing lots of things I could never have done safely with 75# on me. And I'm now 68 and feel like I'm back in my 40"s! I'm very grateful!

[Counselor123]

Hi....

Sounds like you're on the right track....don't lose faith. In case you're not doing these things, I strongly recommend:

1) work with a diet specialist/nutritionist, your primary care doc and the psychiatrist who is monitoring the meds. You need to be monitored for any possible medical conditons from the weight...your heart, knees, etc. Don't be alarmed...I'm just saying that regular testing and exams to make sure your body is doing well generally considering your weight.

2) JOIN A SUPPORT GROUP(S), although it is great that you reached out, forums are not a substitute for in-person groups although the more the better but forums will tend to keep you isolated indoors vs being around other people. Going to support meetings will not only get you out to reexperience social interactions and reduce depression, but personal interactions with others will be healthy for you. Ask your psychiatrist for referrals to support groups and/or find a group referral phone number service in your area by searching for one online (call your County Dept of Mental Health possibly)....both specific mental health groups as well as others like Overeaters Anonymous, etc. If you fill your days with meetings then it keeps you from the couch and bags of potato chips. Get a sponsor in one of these groups so you have someone to call when you are feeling you need to connect.

3) I'm sure you're seeing a therapist in addition to your psychiatrist who you might see only monthly for med checks.

4) talk to your psychiatrist about other medication that might not have the same weight gain effect. You have probably already done this. By all means, stay on the medication you are given! If you ever stop it, it must be carefully with the doctor's guidance.

5) The exercising is great; even the walking to the gym. Make sure your primary care doc knows you're doing this. Also, hopefully there's someone at the gym who is guiding you to do the right exercises. Exercise and using your muscles will help you with depression, SO KEEP IT UP!

6) Continue building a support system. Isolation is your enemy.

Hope some of this helps. You'll get through this...Good luck!

[Counselor123]

yes! Never shop when hungry 🙂

If you don't buy it, you can't eat it! 🙂

[Counselor123]

Good for you. I assume you're seeing a therapist as well.

Remember when grocery shopping: If you don't buy it, you can't eat it at home.

[FLDream]

I am curious how long it took for you to lose that 51 lbs.  I have been watching what I eat since January (at most 1800 cal/day with few exceptions) and regularly exercising moderately (at least 45 min 3-4 x's per week) for the last 4 weeks.  I have lost a total of 17lbs... only 6 in these last 4 weeks.  I thought with over 100lbs to lose, it would come off quicker with the effort I have been putting in.  My only issue is not getting enough sleep (a bit of insomnia).  

[SabbyEatsFresh]

Hi not giving up! I’m so glad I found this community. I also have BPD. I was diagnosed after retiring from competitive sport and the medication and binge eating made my weight spiral out of control. 6 weeks ago I realised that I needed to lose 45.8kg (101lbs) to get to my former weight. I leaned in hard to one of my symptoms, OCD and I set myself small weekly goals with checklists and meticulously planned meals and workouts to keep me on track. I’m pleased to say I’ve lost 13kg (29lbs) so far in 6weeks.

Embrace who you are - you can do it - we can all do this together!