Gym anxiety after major weight loss — building confidence in the weight room

Clinical perspective, offered as context rather than as advice.

Recovering from an eating disorder and using mental health: this is a complex situation and I want to be transparent about it.

I have a history of binge eating disorder. My psychiatrist, therapist, and prescribing doctor all collaborate on my care. The GLP-1 agonist has actually been therapeutic — it removes the biological urgency of binge impulses without relying on restriction.

This is NOT appropriate for all ED patients. Anorexia, bulimia, and restrictive EDs require different approaches. But for BED specifically, the evidence and my personal experience are positive. Always involve your mental health team.

labquiet_amy said:

Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 92 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes.

Bookmarking. The distinction being drawn above is the one nobody else makes. Taking it to my next appointment.

Clinical perspective, offered as context rather than as advice.

When to call your doctor about mental health side effects — a reference I wish I'd had:

Call immediately:

• Severe abdominal pain (could be pancreatitis)
• Vision changes (thyroid concern)
• Lump in neck (thyroid nodule)
• Severe vomiting/can't keep fluids down for 24h+

Schedule an appointment:

• Persistent nausea beyond 4 weeks
• Significant hair loss
• Mood changes or depression
• Gallbladder symptoms (RUQ pain after eating)

EndoResFellow said:

When to call your doctor about mental health side effects — a reference I wish I'd had: Call immediately: Severe abdominal pain (could be…

Same experience, arrived at from the opposite direction.

Moderator note: reminder that nothing in this thread is medical advice, and that clinical claims need a source. No action needed from anybody.