Why do I have eating/weight issues?

Mental Health Eating Disorders & Body Dysmorphia
1

I noticed there are some people who say that people have eating issues because of control.

Personally, I don't think in my situation it's down to control. I don't really know how I actually got it.. so I would really appreciate if anyone could give me some ideas as to why I have issues with eating and weight.

When I was seven or eight years old, I remember vividly that two of my aunts called me fat even though looking back I was of average weight. I know it was said in a jokingly way but I remember I was hurt. I dislike having to visit them because I'm afraid they'll remark on my weight again. I also remember asking my mother when I was young if I was "fat" and she said "a little bit," which also kind of hurt me back then. Again I was of average weight.

To be fair, my cultural background pressures people to be "thin." There are very few people who are "fat" and belong to the ethnic minority of which I am part of. Maybe this is why?

I don't think I'm seeking attention because I haven't told anyone (except those who are reading this) but I do plan on telling my doctor despite the fact it is going to be very difficult.

I'm struggling to find out why I have issues with food. If it's not control, attention, then what is it? I appreciate you reading this long question if you've made it this far.

2

Kazeri,

To be honest I think you answered your own question. When people feel pressured at a young age to look a certain way that tends to stick with you. Cultural influences can also play a huge role in eating disorders. If you have always felt like you needed to be thin then that could have caused you ED. If, and when, you talk to your doctor you may discover other reasons this could have been caused but your childhood feelings of being fat would be my guess.

3

One of the other major causes in EDs besides control is low or lack of self-esteem. If you feel harshly judged based on your appearance, it makes you more vulnerable. Who do you compare yourself to when you look in the mirror? Or maybe this is more personal to you. If your family has subtly (or not-so-subtly) shown that they consider a person's appearance and/or conformity a big factor in how they value people, it can put a lot of pressure on you to fit in.