The story of who I am, why I am the way I am, and what I've been through is ever changing and developing on a daily basis. Over five years ago, I started sharing more vulnerable posts on my Instagram about my experiences with mental health. The purpose behind this decision stemmed from my wanting to be more authentic and transparent with those around me, and take ownership of who I am. 

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Though only taking a fraction of my life in duration, the story of my struggles with an eating disorder has arguably been one of my most influential and transformative experiences. It was through this incredibly painful time that I was able to develop the mental strength and self awareness necessary to help me grow and step into the most authentic version of myself. Learning to be transparent in my recovery taught me the power of personal testimony and vulnerability, and shaped my eagerness to work in the clinical field from an empathetic, patient-centered approach.

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My entire life has been an unending search and struggle to feel safe in my body. My history of body image issues, rooted in my lack of self esteem or sense of self, defined my thoughts, behavior, and quality of life for over a decade.

 

I spent years of my life living by oppressive rules and abusive thoughts and struggled with constant feelings of shame, guilt, and worthlessness. Dieting and exercising was both a symptom and a problem in itself, a way to cope with life while frantically responding to culturally induced body insecurity. For me, what started off as a simple diet quickly set off a completely different reward and motivation system driven by compulsions and anxiety than logic. Restricting and exercising no longerjust filled the purpose of wanting to lose weight, but became a means by which I used to cope with life. They were a way to punish myself when I felt guilty, internalize my anger, and avoid pain and sadness. The worst part about my eating disorder was the compulsion and anxiety that fueled it. I knew when I was being illogical, but yet I couldn't help but act in the ways I did.

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My eating disorder brought me to multiple treatment centers, in Los Angeles, Florida, and North Carolina. Through these experiences, I not only developed an interest in clinical psychology as a profession, but met lifelong friends. I have seen firsthand the positive effects of psychotherapy and would now like to be at the forefront of the research and treatment that will make a meaningful difference.

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My experiences with mental health allowed me to cultivate the strength and self awareness to be where I am today, and be exactly who I am today. I have never wanted to come across as inauthentic, entitled, or like I believe I am qualified to give/share advice from the lessons I've personally learned. In writing and creating art, I am able to find peace and find a sense of purpose. This, coupled with the positive feedback I received from my Instagram posts, inspired me to create this platform to reach more people but also continue my healing through writing.

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I know I am not alone in my struggles with body image, lack of self worth, and numerous other insecurities.  I hope that my writing offers insight into the countless lessons I've learned through my journey, and can create a community or resource for you to heal from whatever you are working through. I wish that I had access to all the resources, knowledge, and support that I have now, and I believe that accumulating all of this knowledge allowed me to choose recovery consistently, kept me strong, and pushed me to fight against my mind until it brought me here.

 

I hope to convey that, regardless of your story and struggles, you are not alone, you are exactly where you need to be.

 

You are exactly who you were meant to be. 

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Elena

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Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

 

The opinions and views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, health practice or other institution.