When I did my psych evaluation, the therapist did ask me about sexual abuse in my childhood. There is a definite correlation between sexual abuse and obesity. I did not make the connection for many, many years, but I was sexually abused as a child and it had a HUGE impact on my weight throughout the years.

I was sexually abused and it really did hurt me and did impact my weight. I really want everyone who was impacted as well to talk about it here. If you were impacted as well...and if you think it will help, please speak up with me.

This topic is covered in-depth in the book "Eat it Up" by Connie Stapleton. I use to think it was pathetic to blame your current problems on childhood issues. However, this book provides great insight into how childhood abuse or neglect effects your eating behavior during your adult life. Not all obese people grow up in dysfunctional homes, but most do. Survival in a fearful environment takes many forms, eating being one of them. Food may be the only way we found comfort as a child and it continues to be the means by which we soothe ourselves as adults. This insight into why we overeat is not what truly matters. Doing or not doing the healthy behaviors is what counts.