From the other side of the consultation, briefly.
Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in:
Before (268 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.
After (188 lbs): Run 3 miles regularly, pain-free, A1C normal, down to 1 medication, bought a swimsuit for the first time in a decade, actually enjoy being photographed.
Total weight lost: 83 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.
Clinical perspective, offered as context rather than as advice.
Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 65 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes. "Phantom fat" is a real phenomenon.
My therapist specializes in body image issues with weight loss patients. She says it can take 12-18 months for your brain's body map to update. In the meantime: take progress photos (your eyes lie but cameras don't), try on old clothes, and be patient with yourself.
ingrid_STO said:Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 65 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes.
Adding a me-too, because a thread of one person's experience is not much use. Nothing to add that would improve it.
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Browse GL Biochemingrid_STO said:Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 65 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes.
There is a second half to this that has not been said yet. Take it one variable at a time. Almost every unanswerable question in these threads is unanswerable because three things changed in the same fortnight, and no amount of subsequent argument can untangle them after the fact.
Moderator note: leaving this open. It is being argued well and the disagreement is the useful part. Report rather than reply if it drifts again.