I don't know if this is the right place to post this but I'm going to.

I just wanted to share a little of my journey. I had my sleeve on 3/14, and have been overwieght the majority of my life. I am 41 years old, single (divorced 4 years ago), no kids.

I am discovering that the hardest part for me of this journey is facing the emotional/psychological issues that the food has been masking all these years. I am in therapy and I knew that this would come but I didn't realize how intense it would be.

For me the biggest issue is learning to love myself and accept myself. I have constantly, since I was a child, relied on other people for thier approval. I am my own worst enemy and I think it has played a huge role is my social (dating) world my entire life. I had a glimpse of how I want a guy to treat me recently and it made me think that I will never get that, etc, etc. I know it's feeling sorry for myself and i work everyday, hour, sometimes minute to break the lifetime of self hatred...just wondering if anyone else is dealing with this or has come thru on the other side.....

So many typos in that post! Sorry, but i THINK it's still readable...

Kathy... it really is not fun at all when you begin to strip away the "masking" layers. It's tough and will likely be tougher before better... but in the end you will be strong and so enlightened on yourself. I had a bit of a breakdown (still feel i need to sugarcoat!) about 9 years ago and that spurred so many changes and inner growth. Now, I'm thankful I hit bottom. I still have my set of struggles but can tackle them is such a healthier way. This forum has been a great source of information for me and virtual support, as well. But be sure to find a support group around you so you have some physical contact as well!

Oh and also!! The authors have a website and some of the important aspects of the book are on there, if you want a preview of it to see if it resonates with you.

http://www.intuitiveeating.com/

The "10 Principles" is pretty much an outline and the whole book is based on that so give that a read, and there is a quiz you can take too.

Many thanks - I've ordered one... I think it'll help me thru the aftermath!!!

Thank you to everyone who has responded. It is nice to know that others have gone thru the same thing. It's a struggle everyday but I'm dealing with it.

Also the book Intuitive Eating really helped me with a lot of the emotional baggage and I would HIGHLY reccommend this book.

Thanks for that book recommendation! I downloaded the book last night to my kindle and so far I can relate to so much of it it's scary!

Oh and also!! The authors have a website and some of the important aspects of the book are on there, if you want a preview of it to see if it resonates with you.

http://www.intuitiveeating.com/

The "10 Principles" is pretty much an outline and the whole book is based on that so give that a read, and there is a quiz you can take too.

Thank you for that link! It lead me to a path of eating disorders. I am very concerned about my 7 year old granddaughter. I believe she isdeveloping an anorexic tendency. Thank you again!