A Letter of Hope and Advice To My Anorexic Teenage Self

Hey kiddo,
I know today was hard, and so was yesterday, and tomorrow probably will be, too.

Unlike your classmates who are excited about going off to college and starting their lives, you feel like you don’t have much to look forward to. I know you think anorexia will kill you, that you’ll become another statistic. You want the pain to end.

I know some days you give up on yourself and feel like you can’t continue the fight, so lean on Mom and Dad. Dad always knows what to say to make you feel better (by the way, that will never change). And there’s always comfort in a hug from Mom (that doesn’t change either).

I know it’s hard to believe, but one day, it won’t be so tough.

One day, you’ll be able to live your life the way you dream.

One day, you will have everything you’ve ever wanted.

One day, you’ll eat without fear and anxiety (most of the time).

I’m not saying you won’t still have tough days because you will. The depression and anxiety don’t leave, but you’ll find ways to manage it. Ed occasionally makes an appearance, but you’ll tell him to “fuck off,” and he does.

You’re not a quitter, and you’re stronger than you realize. As Dad says, “Get mad, get tough.” Keep that mentality because it will get you through a lot.

Life is absolutely worth living, so don’t give up. There are many more amazing things to come.


You got this.

Love,
Me