Asking for Help

I know it's been awhile since I last wrote - there are a bunch of reasons for this. One, honestly, is that I've been busy. Despite the luxury of having two three-day weekends in a row (awesomeeeeeee), somehow I always manage to fill the time.

Another reason I haven't written is that there hasn't really been anything food-wise inspiring me. I don't want to go into great detail on a public forum, but I've continued to struggle with certain food issues. Everyone has their stuff to deal with, I realize that. And I have mine. As I've stated, maintenance has been hard - I've done it, I've managed it, but mentally, it's different from weight loss, less clear cut. And, as I've said, it's scary! I have never done it before. I do know that this time is different, but I want it to continue to be different, and successful.

So, after some discussion with a friend and A, I've decided to start seeing a therapist. I have my first appointment tomorrow - and I'm really excited! My insurance can cover sessions, and I found a person, who I spoke with on the phone today, who I think can really help.

This is the first time I'm seeking help on my own, which is a big deal. Sometimes you just can't manage everything by yourself, and I think this is one of those instances. I don't want to fall back into bad habits, unhealthy habits and ways of thinking. I know I have changed a lot of things, but there are many things that still can be changed. And I know things will never be perfect - but I think they can be better.

So, I'd like to close with something that one of my friends, the one who I talk to about weight-loss related stuff, told me about therapy, and asking for help. She said:

I'm really proud of you for realizing that you needed help. That's one of the hardest things to ever admit to yourself -- trust me, I've been there! I know you know this, but I'll emphasize it for you: asking for help makes you a strong person. Asking for help does not mean you are broken, or weak, or anything negative. It means you're smart enough to know that something is wrong and you need help in fixing it.

So I hope this can help you all to know - we all have our struggles. It hasn't been a cake walk since I've decided to lose and maintain weight, despite the success that I've had. And I do appreciate those successes. I also have the issues that I need to deal with. But - I'm strong enough now to realize when I need help with something, that I am capable of finding that help. I hope if any of you do, you're able to ask whoever it is that can help. (And I am always open to talk with anyone who needs it, too! Always let me know if that person can be me).

xoxo
S