Feb 28, 2016 3 min read

Dear Annie: People think they know how eating disorders start, but I want to share my story, which might surprise people. I never set out to have an eating disorder. I didn’t even set out to lose weight. However, after I took up running to relieve stress and ended up losing a few pounds, I was pleasantly surprised by how people reacted to me and how I felt about myself.

Pretty soon, running became more of an obligation than something I did to relieve stress. Then, I became obsessed with everything I ate. I had to eat certain things at certain times of the day and it all had to be super healthy. My world was getting smaller and smaller, as I eliminated various foods and drinks. Being with friends who questioned my habits became too much effort, so I withdrew socially. Without friends around to keep me in check, the weight dropped off drastically and I became emaciated. I thought I was fine.

Finally, my parents stepped in and threatened me with involuntary hospitalization, so I submitted to treatment. It wasn’t easy, and I mourned the loss of my hypercontrolled life. But it was worth it. Not only did it save my life, but also it enabled me to have a life filled with normal, fun activities that would not have been possible when I was sick. I remember the first time I went out for Mexican food with friends after my recovery. I ate enchiladas and drank a margarita and realized I was rediscovering a life that I thought I had lost forever.

I want people to know that treatment is effective. There is a great life out there waiting for them. – Rachel

Dear Rachel: Thank you. Eating disorders and body dissatisfaction affect men and women of all races and all walks of life. They have the highest rate of mortality of any mental illness. Unfortunately, of the 30 million men and women who suffer from a clinically significant eating disorder during their lifetime, only a small percentage seeks treatment. There are free and anonymous screenings available at MyBodyScreening.org.

Dear Annie: Like “Bah, Humbug,” my family also includes people who are better off than others. At Christmas, we give to charity. We try to find a worthy cause that the relative would appreciate. For my brother, I once chose a portion of a donkey from the Heifer Project. He had great fun with that when people would ask him what he got.

You could do this any time during the year and then send a card at Christmas telling the person of your gift in their honor. It leaves everyone with a good feeling, and they know they have helped others. – No Stress

Dear No Stress: This type of gift is a wonderful idea and can be tailored to anyone’s specific interests. As always, please check out the charity with one of the watchdog organizations such as charitynavigator.org, charitywatch.org or give.org.

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