Epiphany: body dismorphic disorder

[still me 9]

I was sleeved Oct 1st, im down 30lbs since I started the journey sept 7th.

Prior to the surgery, i NEVER EVER looked in the mirror to see how I looked, i would avoid the mirror at all costs. Today I was standing looking in the mirror and started to feel disgust and overwhelming hate, i just got out of the shower, wearing smaller clothing, and my hair done, just trying to look presentable. Before, i would make sure I was clean and not look in the long mirror, i wouldn't look up in the bathroom mirror, all to avoid.

My epiphany is that to avoid this feeling, maybe I should have been looking in the mirror everyday for the same amount of time I was dieting preop, so I could see changes when the time came, because now, all I see is fat and not progress...but now that I know, I can change my thinking and focus on the good.

Any thoughts

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[LipstickLady 25,682]

Take your measurements so your brain can see your progress even when your eyes don't.

Pick an easily duplicatable outfit like black yoga pants and a white tank, and get someone to take your pics, front back and profile, in a doorframe. Do this each week so you can get a real idea of your changes as you shrink.

You have to train your brain to see the real you, not the old you.

It's a definite mind f!!k! It took me forever to see my real self after 20 years of obesity.

[Quaintrelle 79]

We all have our own way of coping. I always made sure I had on a bit of make up, jewelery, a pretty outfit, and my hair was done. I always felt adequate within my safety zone (home and school). Every time I traveled I ended up full of self loathing and miserable. That is not the life I want. I am having my surgery in 6 days. I'm taking my "pre" measurements tomorrow.

WE CAN DO THIS!!!!

Wishing you the best.

[CVanPelt 19]

I'm still pre-op but I've lost nearly 50#. I didn't really see a difference until 40# lost. Losing a little bit all over your body disguises how much you lost total. I also realized I was definitely stuffed into smaller pants than I should have been wearing. I'm finally down a size and in need of a smaller belt though

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