My name is Julie and I am so happy to have found this forum. I am a binge eater, I'm 28 years old and have been doing it on and off since sometime in high school. I have always managed to stay at an above average weight (currently 5'6", 166 lbs.). I recently quit smoking which has led me to gain a few pounds. But I am not concerned about my weight for only vanity's sake. I am very concerned about my health, now and in the long run. My body fat % puts me in the obese category.
Truth be told, everyday is a struggle. I don't particularly like my job/boss or what I do for a living (hair stylist) but I feel stuck. Also, after living with my boyfriend for the past two years (and surviving a job loss of his for almost a year now a thing of the past, thank goodness!), we have decided to pursue our dream of moving to Arizona (currently in Illinois). He is already out there and has been for almost two months, meanwhile I have been back here and will be until May 2009. Since we have been separated, I have been living alone. No one but our families and close friends are aware of our relocation efforts. No one at my job or any of my clients are aware of this either for fear of losing my job/clientele.
My binging has always been a problem, but since June it has been especially bad. This is about the time we started planning our relocation project. I feel completely out of control! I am lonely and boredom is definitely a trigger for me. But sometimes so is every other emotion for me. Lately, anything can set me off into a binge. I have been really trying to exercise regularly and get plenty of restful sleep. I am not looking for a quick fix, but I am looking for some guidance. I have begun to lose hope and fear that I will never be able to conquer my binging. Any input is greatly appreciated.
Julie
