How does the stigma of obesity impact your self-perception?
Do others' perceptions of you inform how you view your own body? What impact have they had on your experience with obesity?
No. I don't care nor have I ever cared what people think of me. Those that know me, love me regardless of my weight. As for the rest, I don't give a damn what they think.
It must be so freeing to have this mentality,
. How do you maintain it? Do you feel the support of your loved ones helps? - Courtney (Team Member)
I feel there are a lot of stigmas associated with obesity. People think you are lazy and not motivated. Even my own father said it is a fat person’s fault for being obese. I have had doctors blame everything on my weight, even my period pain. When I was in my thirties it was blamed on my weight, until I had to have a hysterectomy and it was endometriosis.
Now I feel hopeless about my weight and why should I keep trying. Of course I try every new thing hoping to find something will help.
My heart aches to you,
. I wish you had more support then and now. Please know we are here for you whenever you need us. I know it's hard when you are constantly bombarded by negativity, but I hope you will fight the pressure to let others define you, especially when they try to define you by your weight. You are not your weight.
This might sound silly, but it can often be really helpful to say out loud a few positive things about yourself morning. It can help you start the day with a healthier outlook so you can ward off some of those people who might try to take you down.
Far too many people with endometriosis are gaslighted by doctors for years before they are diagnosed. I wish you had gotten a diagnosis sooner. Endometriosis can have a huge impact on overall health, causing overwhelming fatigue, inflammation and chronic pain. It's no wonder you couldn't lose weight. Those symptoms don't always go away after a hysterectomy either. Have you ever had your thyroid checked to be sure it's not impacting your metabolism?
I'm glad you keep trying to lose weight despite that hopeless feeling, but I also hope you don't let that effort overwhelm you, that you take the time to appreciate yourself and celebrate the human that you are. Sending lots and lots and lots of hugs your way. - Lori (Team Member)
