paige_pharma said:

Positive side effects of mental health that surprised me: Clearer skin — inflammation reduction improved my rosacea Better sleep — weight loss…

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in:

Before (288 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.

After (183 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: 88 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.

SandraNC_45 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…

Saving this. It is the first explanation that did not require me to already understand it. Adding it to my notes with a link back to this thread.

paige_pharma said:

Positive side effects of mental health that surprised me: Clearer skin — inflammation reduction improved my rosacea Better sleep — weight loss…

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.

CryptoCarl said:

The weight came off and the harder part started, which is not what any of the material I read had prepared me for.

Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 59 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.

Moderator note: the sourcing question belongs in the vendor section and has been split out. No action needed from anybody.