We live in a world where our society defines us. A world where we must look perfect and act perfect to fit in.
But what is perfect? What is normal? Is it focusing on body image and looking perfect, or is it being happy and healthy, thriving off life and off our family and friends? I believe we make our own choices in life and the path that we choose to take is what defines us. Whilst we are here, we can live in the background, or we can try to make a difference. I choose to make that difference, to help someone. I choose to let them know they are not alone in the world and that what they are suffering others have suffered too, and still others have yet to suffer.
There's no shame in admitting that you are struggling. Society is full of pressure and expectations that are false and unrealistic; hundreds of magazines are bought everyday with airbrushed celebrities and different diets to try. These magazines are bought by young people trying to find a place for themselves in life but not knowing where to start or how to start. All they get is false hope and unrealistic targets.
We are all struggling to find our place. Where do we fit in? Who are we going to be? There are so many unanswered questions that you ask yourself daily. Things you can't know at a young age and shouldn't have to know! Youth should be enjoyed and the best part of our lives, but instead we spend it trying to find ourselves.
So many people feel the same way you feel right now, and you are not alone. I'm speaking from personal experience, but I chose to write this blog from a positive point of view. We could choose to focus attention on the effects an eating disorder has, but we could also show people can conquer this. It does get better and there is always a light at the end of the tunnel if you choose to find it. Be brave, push yourself and choose life. Because it's beautiful when you learn to love yourself for more than what you see in the mirror. Your mind is a powerful tool – use it to see the good in the world. It's a long hard road to recovery, but when you get there, the view is great! Embrace your struggle, use it to help others, and remember: when it's dark, always look for the stars. They never let you down.
You have to learn how to live again and, like with any lessons, you often have to fail to learn the best way or the right way...
In the past I’ve wanted to hide the eating disorders that are part of my history, but I want to shout from the rooftops: I'm proud of how far I had come!
I want to shed some light on diet culture and what it drove me to do to myself for eight years. I will never get those eight years back, but what I do know is that I will never put myself through all the self-inflicted pain it took in order to look a certain way.