Q Hi, I am a 17 year old male. I will turn 18 on 26 June this year. I used to consider myself healthier than others in some respects. I mean, I dont get sick easily, I have got good strength in the body, I run well and walk well and a few other things. However, after my 10th grade (Im a freshman now) I had some problems with life - with people, such as, my friends, my family, tutors, ex-girlfriend, grades and everything else. I felt very lonely, depressed and helpless during that time. I never sought any kind of clinical help then, thinking that I could manage myself. The only things which exhibited comfort in my life were to stay aloof from everyone else, eat a lot and watch a lot of movies. I used to sleep less and eat a lot. But I wasnt that fat as I expected to be, because I was also engaged in outdoor activities. About a year ago from now, I developed a beer belly (I dont drink or smoke) and my weight increased from 71 kg (January, 2011) to 79 kg (March, 2013). My blood pressure readings were always fluctuating. I started snoring loudly and encountered breathing problems. I developed a strong dependency on food - especially the junk ones and the chocolates. I started waiting for any opportunity when I could eat a lot. All of my pocket money went into food, of which my family didnt have any knowledge. I used to have a feeling that only eating can make me feel good and accompanied and I still feel such. Now, Ive decided to worry about myself, because Im tired of this kind of life and I want to have some friends. My belly doesnt look good too - getting fatter everyday. Tell me what to do. How do I proceed?
The overeating in your case is due to, psychological factor. Obesity is caused due to emotional eating to you. This is due to social, emotional, physiological cause. You need to bring some changes in your lifestyle first. First of all avoid junk foods and chocolates as much as possible. Kindly involve yourself in any activity and keep yourself busy. Reading good books or magazines, going for walk or jog, doing household work is helpful to you. Take interest in your hobby. Talk with people and friends around you. Talk with your family and get a support system from parents. Regular exercise will also help you avoid depression and negative thoughts. For obesity you may go for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is an important aspect of the treatment of obesity. Cognitions influence both feelings and behaviors, and they cannot be ignored when treating obesity. CBT is utilized in the treatment of obesity as a way to help individuals change their negative eating behaviors and incorporate healthy lifestyle changes.Your doctor may help you with this. For the symptoms of fluctuating blood pressure and breathing problems doctors consultation is necessary.