#bulimia core

[kosakamatsuko]

weighing 122 lbs now :p in my skinny era

[uzi-x33]

what I feel this suicidal maniac would listen to tw opinion as a Dazai kinnie:33

✩sushi soucy- only one song tho, “I deserve to bleed” it fits him since he canonically does/did sh (I have a rant on it)

✩Alex g- so many of his songs have suicidal/self h-rm themes to them he would love Alex g😭‼️‼️

✩mitski- he’s so so so mitski core chat, same reason as Alex g, also with possible themes of ed. Though that can be up for interpretation<3 band new city is literally him tho!!!

✩rebzyyx- the suicide and sh themes of his music fit him so well, along with general themes of mental illness. that’s the same w most of these artists

✩Melanie Martinez- she has songs that south on very Important issues, like suicide, bulimia (ed), and other things

✩Taylor swift- literally adding this one just because of soukoku, and bc every Taylor song fits w soukoku 😭😭 ex: “cardigan” is a hugeee example that fits so well w soukoku

✩mindless self indulgence- (a little note I don’t support the lead singers actions nd im separating art from artist<3) specifically i feel 15 soukoku would love msi, mainly chuuya, getting Dazai into the band^_^ but ig thats a personal hc

Uhh yeah that’s it chat<33 Tnx for reading my random rant‼️😋😋💪

[amiiancasselmanyet]

Fix Me is a Mid 2000's Classic, You're Just Not From Canada

before I start this essay series, I would like to clarify that this is NOT a series of reviews but just me genuinely expressing my feelings I have towards the albums in question because I’m a highschool dropout…bon appetite or whatever

also tw for eating disorders, self harm, general mental illness and addiction but this is fix me, you probably knew that

When most people think about early to mid 2000s rock albums that became staples and bands that became household names, there's a few that genuinely come to mind. Let’s get the “emo trinity” out of the way; From Under The Cork Tree was Fall Out Boys sophomore album from 2005 that is still widely loved for good reason. The songs are good and the lyrics hit when you least expect it. Every. Single. Time. Then, of course, we have The Black Parade. I cannot express my love of this album enough, it is quite literally my all time favorite and while Three Cheers has a more solid concept (man kills other men to try and get his lover back, homosexual antics ensues), there's a reason it’s arguably their most well known and beloved by the kids who used to bully you in middle school. Of course we have A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out coming in right after this, there’s not much I can say since this album truly deserves it’s own essay that I won't manage to write (Ryan Ross please come back the kids and I miss you) but, like the other albums, it's a STAPLE at Emo Nites and Emo Nite knockoffs (shout out to Sneaky Dees in Toronto). There is, however, an album among them that's a hidden gem due to the fact that . Fix Me was the debut studio album from Marianas Trench, arriving in 2006. This album stands out from the others in a lot of ways, its sound, its vulnerability and its general lack of a concept. This album was a shot in the dark and a testament to taking chances. Let's talk about it. 

If you’re even a little bit familiar with Marianas Trench (you definitely are because you are on a blog dedicated to the drummer, my beloved bias Ian Casselman), the sound you’re used to most likely isn’t here. This album is gritty, it’s production is grungy. When you look at the other albums at face value, it stands out as nothing like the rest. If you dig deeper, however, you realize that this album truly was the foundation of what was to come. The guitar heavy sound continues throughout the discography, even if it feels less clean than its successors. It adds to the aggression a lot of the songs have, it makes the lyrics hit harder. It was too rock for the pop charts but too pop for the rock charts.(I’m pretty sure Josh said that but this thing isn’t getting a bibliography, this is a more sophisticated shit post on a blog that, again, focuses on the silly drummer with mutton chops) While the sound is incredible, the true core of the album lies in its vulnerability.

Fix Me is essentially an auditory diary, with each track feeling like a new entry. There are themes focusing on the actual struggles Josh Ramsay dealt with at the time. There’s a lot about addiction (specifically heroin), self harm, eating disorders (specifically bulimia) and general depression. It's angsty. It's difficult  to hear at times. You're not supposed to get personal during essays but this is literally on a blog where I refer to the followers as “casselman nation”, it’s a lawless land and fuck you I’ll do what I want. This album, at its core, felt like it was almost a diary entry from a younger me. 

14 year old me was very different from the current me, I had a different name entirely, a different outlook on life and a lot of things that shaped me today had not happened yet. I was unmedicated and everyone else's problem. If you ever scroll down on the personal tag of my main (you WILL NOT, you DO NOT need to see my digital footprint and angst), you'll notice that there's a lot of themes on this album that pertained to me at that time. I was VERY depressed, undiagnosed bipolar 2, bulimic and…doing things in school bathrooms I shouldn't have with items from my art class I shouldn't have had access to in that state (not going to elaborate, I’m sure you get where I’m going). When you deal with those things head on, you tend to, from experience, seek out public figures, whether it be musicians or celebrities or youtubers (shout out to Dan and Phil lmao) who have similar experiences that you had. For me, a big one from the get go was Marianas Trench. There’s something oddly comforting in not only knowing you’re not only alone but that you’re ALSO going to survive. I truly wish I was able to hug 14 year old me but I also know that they’d be proud that I DIDN’T do the thing I wanted to do before I turned 17.

There’s another reason Fix Me is truly removed from other albums and it truly feels like the biggest component; there's no concept. Fix Me has its own identity but it's not through a story or through successful singles, it's through the fact that it has none of it. It shines through its simplicity, its impact is through the way it can stand alone. It’s an album by the band that could be, and should be at times, put on shuffle. It’s an album where you can pick any song, off the top of your head, and listen to it when you’re feeling angry or sad or full of unbridled angst. Sure, you CAN listen to other songs on other albums one at a time, Masterpiece Theatre is the first on I can think of off the top of my head, however, would you want to? Would you want to listen to The End of An Era and have it followed up with a song like This Means War? It 100% kills the immersive nature that the band has carefully crafted over the last 20 years. (yes they’ve been a band that long considering the fix me bsides are from 2001, yes it makes me feel geriatric) I think the biggest reason that it personally hits every mark imaginable for a grungy punk record is the fact that there is no secret meaning hidden in each song, its open and honest from the get go. It’s raw, real and does exactly what it needs to do.

Through its sound, its ability to be honest and vulnerable in its writing and the easily accessible material, it's a staple. Shake Tramp belongs in an Emo Nite just as much as something like Sugar We’re Going Down and more than Welcome to the Black Parade (I love that song but it doesn’t fit the vibe as well as House of Wolves or The Sharpest Lives, Emo Nite is just catering to the normies and preps). Decided to Break Its video should be as beloved as I Write Sins Not Tragedies. Marianas Trench deserve their flowers for being such a staple in the lives of canadian teens who are struggling, the adults who want to comfort their inner teen selves and those who, in general, are feeling small.

[lunamagicablu]

Puoi distinguere uno Starseed da un Lightworker in base a quanto bene si adattano alla vita sulla Terra e alle attuali norme sociali. Per dirla semplicemente, uno Starseed avrà difficoltà ad adattarsi alla Terra. Nel profondo, sentiranno sempre il bisogno di tornare a casa, anche se non hanno la più pallida idea di dove sia. Questo potrebbe manifestarsi come una personalità introversa, che evita di interagire troppo con le persone, o anche come forti depressioni e problemi mentali derivanti dal fatto che la vibrazione della loro anima deve diminuire per adattarsi alla vibrazione del pianeta. Molto probabilmente uno Starseed odierà le norme sociali e si ribellerà a qualsiasi pressione per conformarsi o vivere in un certo modo. Da dove provengono, tali pressioni non esistono, quindi vorranno sempre vivere secondo i loro valori fondamentali. Uno Starseed può anche avere problemi con il cibo, è cadono spesso in anoressia e bulimia, perché, nei regni superiori, potrebbe non aver avuto un corpo fisico, aver bisogno di cibo fisico o semplicemente, ha vissuto in un’energia molto diversa. Al contrario, un Operatore di Luce si adatterà più facilmente alla vita sulla Terra, anche se ha una vibrazione più elevata. La maggior parte degli Operatori di Luce troverà l’equilibrio nella propria vita dopo il risveglio spirituale , mentre la maggior parte degli Starseed lotterà quasi sempre con quello. Elena Amato ******************** You can tell a Starseed from a Lightworker based on how well they adapt to life on Earth and current social norms. To put it simply, a Starseed will have difficulty adapting to Earth. Deep down, they will always feel the need to return home, even if they have no idea where it is. This could manifest as an introverted personality, who avoids interacting too much with people, or even as severe depression and mental problems resulting from the fact that the vibration of their soul must decrease to adapt to the vibration of the planet. A Starseed will most likely hate social norms and will rebel against any pressure to conform or live a certain way. Where they come from, such pressures do not exist, so they will always want to live by their core values. A Starseed may also have problems with food, and often fall into anorexia and bulimia, because, in the higher realms, they may not have had a physical body, needed physical food or simply, lived in a very different energy. In contrast, a Lightworker will adapt more easily to life on Earth, even if she has a higher vibration. Most Lightworkers will find balance in their lives after spiritual awakening, while most Starseeds will almost always struggle with that. Elena Amato 

[leffee]

Penny: “Vinnie, no, don’t drink that!”

Vinnie: “Why? It tastes funny, but it’s not that bad.”

Penny: Vinnie, no, that cup of prune juice. It was for Minka.”

Vinnie: “Oh, okay. So why can’t I have it? I’m confused.”

Penny: “Because it was to help Minka with her ..problem.”

Vinnie: “Is she okay? Oh no, I’m sorry, Penny.”

Penny: “It’s fine, I have more, but uh, I think you should stay near the bathroom for a while.”

Vinnie: “Uh, what?”

Penny: “There was, um, ..laxative in the ..juice… Sorry.”

Vinnie: “…Oh, shi”—

I mean... yeah, shit indeed. There's gonna be lots of it soon, uh oh. I imagine that's why there that "-" at the end cause that's when Vinnie felt it. Bulimia nervosa core for real.

See that's why you shouldn't drink stuff you haven't prepared yourself. Not cause it can be poisoned but because it can have laxative. Then again Vinnie has drunk paint before, I think he will be fine actually.

[cherryrainn]

━━ ✧ 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐥𝐲𝐧 𝐛𝐚𝐛𝐲 {𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐱 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫}

.4 - 𝙙𝙞𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙙𝙚𝙬.

─ ✩ 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 ; s3lf harm, depression, bulimia, mental health issues, self hatred, stuff like that, and just like my other stories... lots of angst!

─ ✩ 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄 ; im so sorry. im so dumb i forgot to put this on tumblr, sorry for those who were waiting for so long.

─ ✩ 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐏𝐀𝐃 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍

─ ✩ 𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐆 ; here

─ ✩ 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐁𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄

─ ✩ 𝐍𝐄𝐗𝐓 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓

you sat outside the farmhouse, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within you. startled, scared, and unsure of what to do next, you found yourself grappling with conflicting thoughts. on one hand, part of you felt a strong urge to tell millie's parents or tell blitzø about what had happened inside the house.

but then, another part of you yearned to run away, to distance yourself from the terrifying ordeal you had just witnessed. the fear of striker's retaliation hung heavily in the air, leaving you uncertain of what he might do if he discovered that you had spoken up. would he do something to you? the weight of these questions pressed upon your conscience, casting a shadow of doubt over your decision.

as you contemplated your next move, a profound sense of guilt washed over you. you felt bad, terrible even, for considering keeping silent. it went against your principles of fairness and justice, yet in the depths of hell, selfishness and self-preservation seemed to be the norm. everyone around you acted in their own self-interest, looking out for themselves above all else. so, why shouldn't you prioritize your own well-being, just this once?

with a heavy sigh, you made a choice. you decided that, for now, you would put yourself first. the guilt lingered but you couldn't bear the thought of inviting trouble into your life, not when you were already shaken to the core.

you noticed that it was time for the ceremony, and with a sense of anticipation, you rose from your spot and began walking. as you made your way through the bustling crowd, a familiar pang of embarrassment washed over you. it was a feeling you couldn't quite explain or shake off, a nagging self-consciousness that seemed to follow you wherever you went. in your eyes, you were just ugly, unworthy of the attention and admiration that others seemed to effortlessly command. but you pushed those thoughts aside, for now.

finally, you found yourself a spot near the side of the crowd, seeking refuge under the shade of a structure. leaning against the cool brick wall, you settled in, waiting for the ceremony to commence. the atmosphere was charged with anticipation, a palpable energy that crackled in the air.

and then, it began. stolas took center stage, his presence commanding the attention of all those gathered. with a flourish of his grimoire, he conjured a spellbinding display of magic, flipping through the pages as if orchestrating an otherworldly symphony. his voice, infused with a blend of authority and enchantment, rang out across the crowd.

"my dear commoners of the ring of wrath!" stolas proclaimed, his words carrying the weight of both tradition and power. "i, stolas, the renowned demon of the ars goetia, hereby bestow a curse upon this year's harvest, imbuing it with the radiant glow of the true harvest moon!"

the clouds above began to swirl and twist, forming a mesmerizing portal in the darkened sky. with a surge of anticipation, the portal revealed itself to be a gateway to another realm, offering a breathtaking glimpse of an ethereal orange full moon. its soft, golden light spilled forth, casting an enchanting glow upon the land below.

the collective gasp of awe that swept through the crowd was mirrored in your own awestruck expression. the sight before you was nothing short of breathtaking—a testament to the boundless power and beauty that existed within the depths of hell itself. for a fleeting moment, you were transported away from your worries and insecurities, fully immersed in the splendor of this celestial spectacle.

as the crowd oohed and aahed in wonder, you couldn't help but join in, overcome by the sheer magnificence of the scene unfolding before your eyes.

so there you stood, beneath the comforting shade, a spectator in this grand theater of the damned. the harvest moon's radiant glow washed over you.

you lingered beneath the comforting shade, savoring the lingering warmth and tranquility that enveloped you. as the crowd gradually dispersed, the once-thriving space transformed into a quiet oasis, with only a few stragglers remaining. eventually, the solitude pulled you back to reality, prompting you to rise from your reverie.

the weariness that permeated your bones became all too apparent as you contemplated the long journey home. the thought of trudging through the darkness, navigating winding paths and treacherous terrain, weighed heavily on your fatigued form. seeking respite, you decided to opt for a nearby motel instead.

arriving at the motel, you approached the front desk, the scent of stale air and worn carpet mingling in the dimly lit space. weary eyes met yours as the receptionist acknowledged your presence, and with a simple exchange, you obtained the key to your room. climbing the worn staircase to the second floor, each step resonated with a soft creak, echoing the weariness that burdened your every move.

as you pushed open the door, the odor of neglect and mustiness greeted your senses. the room had certainly seen better days, with worn-out furniture and faded wallpaper that seemed to match your own sense of weariness. you discarded your belongings, allowing your body to collapse onto the bed, its lumpy mattress providing little respite for your tired frame. the pervasive smell threatened to invade your senses, but you resolved to ignore it, reminding yourself that this was just a temporary stop along your journey.

lying on your back, you found yourself staring up at the cracked ceiling, lost in your own thoughts. the weariness that had consumed you earlier began to morph into hunger pangs, gnawing at your stomach with an insistent intensity. you knew you should eat, nourish yourself after a long day, but the guilt and self-doubt that plagued your mind made it difficult to muster the will.

with a heavy sigh, you dragged yourself out of bed and shuffled towards the small bathroom, where a modest mirror hung on the wall. as you gazed at your reflection, a mix of disappointment and resignation washed over you. the reflection staring back seemed unfamiliar, a mere shadow of what you believed yourself to be. how had things come to this? did you even deserve to be seen, to be real?

you brought your hands to your face, feeling the roughness of your skin beneath your fingertips. it was a tactile reminder of your own existence, grounding you in the reality of your flawed and worn-out form. with a lingering frown, you turned away from the mirror, convinced that you didn't deserve the nourishment your body craved.

but then, your stomach rumbled with a newfound insistence. the hunger persisted. maybe, just maybe, you could let yourself have a small snack.

a small snack.

as you stepped out of the bathroom, and into your room, you opened the door and your eyes caught sight of a figure across the dimly lit hallway. it took a moment for your mind to process what you were seeing, but the shock that rippled through you was undeniable—it was striker, turning the doorknob and casually strolling into a room adjacent to yours.

a surge of unease coursed through your veins, quickening your heartbeat. questions raced through your mind, each one more urgent than the last. did he follow you here? was this mere coincidence? the mere thought of striker lurking in such close proximity to you sent shivers down your spine.

instinctively, you retreated into your own room, shutting the door with a forceful slam. your hands trembled slightly as you leaned against the wooden barrier, your mind racing to make sense of the situation. thoughts swirled in a chaotic whirlpool, blending fear, curiosity, and a tinge of curiosity.

he was probably just tired and wanted a place to sleep like you did... right?

as the moments ticked by and your curiosity continued to gnaw at your resolve, an irresistible urge compelled you to take a peek through the peephole. you hesitated for a brief moment, the weight of uncertainty pressing down upon you, but curiosity won out in the end.

gently, you pressed your eye against the peephole, your vision tunneling into a narrow perspective of the outside world. and there, standing right in front of your door, was striker, wearing a disarming smile that seemed to hold both mischief and possessiveness. his eyes were locked onto the peephole, as if he knew you were watching.

a gasp escaped your lips, your heart pounding in your chest like a trapped bird. how did he know? the sight of him, looming larger than life, sent a chill down your spine, tingling with a mix of fear and fascination.

before you could gather your thoughts, a sharp knock reverberated through the room, breaking the eerie silence. each thud echoed in your ears like a pounding drum, amplifying the intensity of the moment. you hesitated, frozen in place, unsure of how to respond to this unexpected encounter.

"ya know... i can open that door if i wanted to~"

he spoke in a way as if he were going to do so without your permission. his voice sounded like butter as he continued to lean against the door with his tail swaying back and forth. his words sent a shiver down your spine, hinting at the dangerous depths that lay hidden beneath his charismatic facade.

your heart raced, pounding against your ribcage like a wild animal desperate for escape. but despite the fear coursing through your veins, an inexplicable curiosity gnawed at your core. you knew deep down that striker's intentions were far from innocent, yet an unexplainable magnetic pull drew you closer to the door.

summoning every ounce of courage you could muster, you slowly turned the lock, feeling the weight of the decision pressing upon you. with a creak, the door swung open, revealing striker standing before you, his form towering over yours, emphasizing the vast difference in size and power.

he leaned casually against the doorframe, his posture exuding an air of nonchalance, as if the earlier peephole incident was nothing more than a playful game. his eyes, however, betrayed an intensity that sent chills down your spine. they burned with possessiveness and desire, consuming you with their unwavering focus.

"hey there, darlin'," he drawled, his voice dripping with a mix of charm and danger. "mind if i step in for a moment? i'm parched, and i reckon you might have a bottle of water to spare."

his words seemed innocent enough, but you knew better. there was an ulterior motive lurking beneath his nonchalant request.

but what you didn't know was that he craved something else entirely. his thirst ran deeper, fueled by an insatiable hunger that chilled you to the bone.

caught between fear and fascination, you nodded hesitantly, your voice betraying your inner turmoil. "uh... yeah, sure. come in."

as striker crossed the threshold, his presence enveloped the room, his imposing figure casting a shadow over your meager surroundings. you couldn't help but feel a mix of vulnerability and intrigue, knowing all too well that you were teetering on the edge of a dangerous precipice.

striker made his way further into the room, his eyes never leaving yours. you watched as he leaned against a nearby surface, his confident demeanor belying the storm of emotions brewing within you.

as you handed him the bottle of water, your hands trembled, betraying your apprehension. you knew the true nature of his desire, the thirst that burned within him. but for now, you had no choice but to play along, to keep your own secrets tucked away in the depths of your soul.

as striker quenched his thirst with the water, a flicker of satisfaction danced across his features. he wiped his lips with the back of his hand, fixing his piercing gaze upon you. the intensity in his eyes was undeniable, but to you, it remained a mystery, clouded by the thick veil of his enigmatic persona.

"thanks." he murmured, his voice laced with an undertone of amusement. "you're a real lifesaver. it's been a long day, and a little hydration goes a long way."

you nodded silently, your unease mingling with a subtle curiosity. striker's presence was both captivating and unsettling, drawing you in like a moth to a flame.

as he leaned against the wall, his gaze roamed around the room, taking in the modest surroundings. a faint smirk played at the corner of his lips, hinting at the thoughts swirling within his mind. it was as if he knew something you didn't.

"you know," striker began casually, his voice laced with a touch of mischief, "it's funny how paths cross in unexpected ways. i never would've imagined finding you here, all alone in this shabby motel. but i guess fate has a way of bringing together those who are destined to be entwined."

his words hung in the air, thick with possibilities that you struggled to comprehend. was it mere coincidence that he had stumbled upon your presence? or was there a deeper meaning hidden within his unclear statement? questions swirled within your mind, but you hesitated to voice them, fearing the unknown consequences they might bring.

striker's gaze lingered on you, his eyes searching for something you couldn't quite decipher. there was an intensity to his scrutiny, a hunger for understanding that mirrored the hunger burning within your own soul. yet, you remained oblivious to all of it.

as the silence stretched between you, an unspoken tension filled the room, thickening the air with anticipation. you wondered if there was more to this encounter than met the eye, if there was a purpose hidden within the folds of fate that had brought you together.

as striker observed you with an unknown glint in his eyes, he suddenly reached for the hat perched on his head. with a swift motion, he placed it on your head, the brim slightly tilting to the side. a smirk tugged at the corners of his lips as he took a step back to admire the sight.

"there you go, darlin'," he remarked with a wry grin. "looks like you could use a little touch of style. don't worry, i've got plenty more of these. can't have you looking too sad now, can we?"

his words cut deep, their cruel intent evident. striker took pleasure in belittling you, relishing in your vulnerability. to him, your struggles and insecurities were nothing more than a pitiful display of weakness.

before striding towards the door, he paused for a moment, his gaze lingering on your face. the disdain in his eyes was palpable, a clear reflection of his contemptuous opinion.

"you've got a sad little face, don't ya?" he remarked casually, his tone betraying a mix of amusement and fascination. "but there's something intriguing about it. guess i'll have to stick around to find out."

with a sly wink, striker turned away, leaving you in a state of bewilderment and curiosity. it was clear that he held a particular interest in you, drawn to your vulnerability in ways that went beyond his usual demeanor.

after striker left, you found yourself standing there, still trying to process the encounter. confusion swirled in your mind, mingling with the slightest hint of a blush on your cheeks. his presence had stirred something within you, but you couldn't fathom why he would take any interest in you. you shook your head, trying to dispel those thoughts. the idea of someone being attracted to you felt absurd, given your own insecurities and self-doubt.

it hurt to berate yourself like that, but it was a familiar coping mechanism. you'd always seen yourself as less-than, unworthy of any affection or attention. striker's attentiveness only added to your confusion, making you question if there was more to you than you had ever allowed yourself to believe.

you sighed, feeling the weight of the day's events and emotions bearing down on you. deciding to focus on something else, you walked over to the small motel bed and lay down, staring at the ceiling as you tried to clear your mind.

but striker's image kept appearing in your thoughts – the way he smiled at you, the gentle touch as he put his hat on your head. it was unsettling and thrilling all at once. you didn't know how to make sense of it, but you knew one thing: you couldn't let yourself fall for his charm. it would only lead to heartache and disappointment.

as you closed your eyes, you reminded yourself that here, nobody cared about anyone else. everyone was selfish, ruthless, and had their own hidden agendas. striker was no exception, and you couldn't afford to let yourself be drawn into his world.

with that thought in mind, you forced yourself to push striker and his enigmatic charm to the back of your mind. tomorrow was a new day, and you had to focus on surviving and getting by. you couldn't let anyone get under your skin, especially not someone like striker.

you drifted off to sleep, hoping that the confusing encounter with striker would be nothing more than a fleeting memory.

[menalez]

Just a few small notes about the anorexia and bulimia nervosa criteria:

The weight criterion for typical anorexia nervosa for adults is bmi <18.5, not <17.5, OR markedly less than what would be expected for your age, sex and height in the case of adolescents.

Bulimia nervosa does not necessarily require you eat "a normal amount", just that (on top of the criterion for preoccupation with weight shape and size that are present in both anorexia and bulimia, and explicitly not present in ARFID)

1: you exhibit both binging and purging behaviours which (if i remember the latest criteria correctly) occurs at least 2 times a week, AND

2. you are not clinically underweight (bmi >18.5)

If you meet the criteria for bulimia nervosa but you also "fail/refuse" to maintain a weight above 18.5, you instead fall into the binge/purge subtype of anorexia nervosa (i cant remember if thats type 1 or 2 tho, but either way - the most recent definition of anorexia nervosa are split into two subcategories based on presence/frequency/absence of BOTH binge and purge behaviours)

Either way, this is literally all bullshit lol, not just criteria but entired diagnoses, classifications and subtypes are removed, added and changed pretty frequently, and the distinctions (for example bulimia vs anorexia binge/purge subtype) are pretty arbitrary lol.

Im curious about the tess holiday situation tho, you mentioned her sharing dangerous misinformation, what was that about?

yeah i remember learning about a lot of this in clinical psychology classes in uni,,, i recall w bulimia often ppl diagnosed w it are avg weight or slightly overweight and the main difference is that anorexia often isn’t characterised by binging but rather restricting kind of behaviours & being underweight. ur right that ultimately the distinctions and categorisation are often simply arbitrary which is a common criticism

tess holiday is basically a major advocate of health at every size. while that sounds great in theory & the core idea of “your weight doesn’t necessarily mean you’re healthy/unhealthy” is true, she is very much obese and argues that she’s super healthy & athletic & that you can be obese and have 0 health issues. she also, as someone else mentioned, claimed that she has anorexia (despite also saying she’s totally healthy… contradictory statements). also she’s clearly a chronic liar.

anyways i remember watching a video criticising her and u can check it out if ur interested:

[permianbasedgod]

just finished kick the latch by katherine scanlan.

walks line between fiction and nonfiction, but rejects the label of literary nonfiction, since as an author why not let your self play with the truth?kick the latch was based on several years of interviews with Sonia, a trainer at small-time horse racetrack who is now retired. sonia bound herself to horses and the community that works with them, and these relationships are the core of the book.

the power of kick the latch to me is in its brevity: short vignettes, hardly ever more than a page long, capture sonia’s life on the racetrack and off. the format mirrors in person storytelling, where stories are short and focused on the most visceral details (like a dying horse, an abusive boyfriend choking sonia out at the stable, alarming working conditions at the track, a jockey’s bulimia ritual after surf and turf dinner). reading this reminded me of time i’ve spent with a friends grandmother, who is one of those people who seems to always have stories pouring out of her.

what appeals about sonia is i don’t know if she is the type who always has stories pouring out of her — my instinct is no. therefore, the stories in kick the latch feel like a gift from the author to the reader. sonia’s memories feel like they have been assembled carefully, revealed carefully, through the work of trust that the author built with her subject.

[willsaidaqui]

Minha psicóloga acha que estou deprimido, aaah - eu não estou deprimido. Eu disse pra ela.

Por quê você não consegue terminar esse livro? - Perguntou ela.

Não sei, acho que não estou achando tão interessante. - Respondo abrindo o livro em questão.

- Não acho que esse seja o motivo, faltam poucas páginas para o final. - responde ela avaliando o livro na minha mão.

- Acho que não quero mais saber o que acontece no final. - respondo.

- E se for um final bom? - Pergunta ela me olhando.

Eu não sei dizer o motivo, mas apesar de estar em um consultório horrível, com as paredes pintadas das cores mais horrível, com aquele sexto de lixo pequeno que eu não consigo parar de olhar, ou aquela cadeira desconfortável, mas, eu não me senti tão a vontade ali, mas com ela eu me encontrei.

- Não creio que ficaria feliz, aliás, a maioria dos livros tem finais felizes…

- Então você quer que seja um final triste? - Pergunta ela.

- Não sei, não desejo um final como o meu, mas… ah, eu não sei porque não consigo terminar a droga desse livro.

- Você está deprimido, precisa aceitar isso e, você precisar melhorar.

- digamos que eu esteja deprimido, o que faço?

- Algo que você gosta. Saia, faça caminha, ligue pra alguém legal, você tem amigos não tem?

- É uma pergunta ou uma afirmação? - Pergunto.

- Uma pergunta, Willyan.

- Tenho poucos, mas tenho.

- Entao, ligue pra eles.

- Só isso?

- Só isso, começa por aí. Aos poucos as coisas vão se ajeitando, um termino não é o fim do mundo, já tínhamos conversado sobre essa possibilidade, você me disse que ia ter os pés no chão e que no dia que isso fosse acontecer, você não ia se machucar tanto, lembra?

- Eu lembro, só que, eu não sabia que ia ser tão rápido, tão fácil pra ele.

- Não diga isso, você não está dentro dele para ter essa certeza. Cada ser humano procura aquilo que é melhor para si, mas isso não quer dizer que é fácil, tomar decisões, fazer escolhas, muitas vezes machuca demais a gente.

- A senhora acha que ele tá sofrendo?

- Não sei, como eu disse, não estamos dentro dele para saber, mas pela história que você me contou de vocês dois, sim, ele deve estar sofrendo e muito.

- Ele tá curtindo a vida dele, festas, mar, novos amigos, paqueras, eu não acredito que ele seja tão santo assim, eu já vi ele flertar no início do nosso relacionamento. Mas, quando ele me deixou, eu prometi que ia só desejar o melhor, e assim estou fazendo.

- Você precisa desejar o melhor para voce, Willyan, ele não faz mais parte da sua vida, o que passou já está lá atrás, guarde o que foi bom e use as coisas, tudo, como ensinamento. Ah sempre algo para aprender.

- Acho que tá bom, nem acredito que acabei falando dele de novo na minha segunda semana.

- Você fala dele desde o início da terapia. Isso é algo que venho te chamando a atencao, mas entre um assunto e outro, você sempre nos leva até o seu ex. Você está bebendo?

- Não, quer dizer, eu bebo vinho, eu amo.

- Você quer um remédio?

- Vai me deixar bem dopado?

- Nao, mas ele vai te deixar com o humor melhor, aliás, notei que você está bem mais magro, tem se alimentado direito?

- Bom, falando do remédio, não quero, vou praticar caminhadas e vou me reaproximar de algumas pessoas. E quanto a alimentacao, era bulimia ou automutilação.

- Ambos acabam com você e com as pessoas que estão por perto. Você quer isso mesmo? Voltar tudo do início?

- Na verdade eu vi que foi um erro horrível fazer isso. Eu tenho uma melhor amiga e, eu recebi uma mensagem dela esses dias, eu me senti a pessoa mais amada desse mundo, eu não estou sozinho, eu vou dar conta, prometo.

- Isso é bom, eu espero mesmo. Mas na semana que vem, eu quero você aqui novamente, me conta o que fez durante a semana?

[kosakamatsuko]

my family keeps buying/making me food and drinks when i already ate!!!!! y’all i have an eating disorder this is so triggering but i have to eat it to show my gratitude and appreciation because this is your love language but i’m dying here

[ririthefairy]

WHAT I LEARNT DURING 9 MONTHS OF CALISTHENICS AS A 14 YO (+ sport lifestyle tips)

Hellooo, this is my first experience-sharing and tips-giving post on the main topic of my life: calisthenics.

Since November 2023, I got serious with this sport. Here's what I learnt about the gym community:

The "1200 calories" culture isn't enough for most of the teenagers. While practicing a sport, you burn calories, so you need to have ENOUGH ENERGY to even practice well. When I started the 1200 calories per day, I didn't even have enough energy for 3 push ups... Plus, this took me in a toxic cycle, the famous binge eating. This is what put me in this state of bulimia that I'm working on healing because BULIMIA AIN'T COOL.

Don't follow every type of advice on the internet (but yeah it costs nothing to follow mines 🤭). You can't compare your teenage self with a grown adult, or even someone who teaches things for ADVANCED people while you are a begginer. The genetics also matter, so make sure to follow people that you can identify yourself with.

It's alright to not be disciplined. The thing is that you have to find another way to keep your workout going on, then. Sometimes, I just watch videos of people doing calisthenics and then I get in the mood for doing my own workout.

If you don’t like the sport that you are doing for more than 3 months, you still have the time to change it. The most important thing while moving your body is to like it, because, even if having bigger arms than your ex (s/o to mine 😘) is satisfying, your brain also has to LIKE IT, it will improve your mental health.

The "3" rule for me is: 3 meals, 3 snacks, 3 liters of water. (Maybe not suitable for everyone, but snacks are a must for me to have enough energy before working out)

Be okay with lazy days. If you're on your period, just rest and do something creative instead of sport, or take a walk if you really want to move.

ABS WORKOUT WON'T GIVE YOU ABSSSSSS. I've been there, imagine myself with those constent 2 YEARS of 15 minutes abs workout every night, still a no! It is still good to train them, because it will streghten your core. But you also need a little calorie deficit (I see ya, don't even think about starving yourself this won't work lol), but abs workout help with building your abs muscles, and it will be easier to see them!

If you crave a cookie, either make a healthier version that tastes GOOD, or either eat a cookie.

I LOVE YOU TAKE CARE OF YOURSELFFF

[komicoshea]

Missing Legends - 2 Great Lake Avenger ladies

Hey, my fellow Plastic Addicts. With the ever-decreasing number of characters that Hasbro has yet to make, there are a few characters that people want BUT realize that they can’t have for several reasons. Such is the case with the core member of the Great Lake Avengers. Yes, I know this was done for comedic effect but between depicting constant suicide attempts, Bulimia, brutal deaths and so much…

[aesarahealth]

Professional Naturopathy Counselling

Our experienced counselor is committed to guiding you through life’s challenges, helping you achieve inner harmony and resilience. Anxiety counseling aims to help individuals manage and reduce their anxiety levels. It involves cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and other therapeutic approaches to help individuals cope with anxiety. Expert counseling for life challenges, guiding you towards a fulfilling future. There’s additionally an extensive placement element within the Master of Psychology comprising about one thousand hours. Something he applies whether he’s rehabilitating someone from Psychological injury or bettering people like a personal coach would, step-by-step. His approach is tailor-made particularly to satisfy your wants to find a way to help you to start out dwelling the life you need. The demand for psychological well-being services increased as tens of millions of lives were - Massage Northcote.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed specialised coaching in psychiatry, which is how to diagnose, treat, and forestall mental, emotional and behavioural problems. Short-term remedies refer to visits to the counselor or an accredited psychological health social worker who will help you with a selected aspect of your life or assist your basic well- being. We focuses on diagnosing, managing, and treating neurological disorders. Additionally, she offers clinical therapy and counselling for people with depression or issues with stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, or addiction to substances like drugs and alcohol. We also provides therapy for people with the best clinical Psychology Specialist - Osteopath Northcote.

We play a crucial role in counseling where they have the required expertise in understanding a depressed person. With their in-depth knowledge of this subject, they are in a position to interpret and console a depressed person in a positive way. This way they are turning the course of a depressed person into an optimistic approach. A utilized psychologist will work with patients in a scientific setting to help with advanced mental well-being situations. It gives you greater self-awareness in your life and realises why you are the person you might be, in addition to understanding your core beliefs and how they have been fashioned within you - Psychologist Northcote. For more information, please visit our site https://www.aesarahealth.com/

[vincewillard-1971]

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a structured program of psychotherapy with a strong educational component designed to provide skills for managing intense emotions and negotiating social relationships. Originally developed to curb the self-destructive impulse of chronic suicidal patients, it is also the treatment of choice for borderline personality disorder, emotion dysregulation, and a growing array of psychiatric conditions. It consists of group instruction and individual therapy sessions, both conducted weekly for six months to a year.

The "dialectic" in dialectical behavior therapy is an acknowledgement that real life is complex, and health is not a static thing an ongoing process hammered out through a continuous. Socratic dialogue with the self and others. It is continually aimed at balancing opposing forces and investigating the truth of powerful negative emotions.

DBT acknowledges the need for change in a context of acceptance of situations and recognizing the constant flux of feelings-many of them contradictory-without having to get caught up in them. Therapist-teachers help patients understand and accept that thought is an inherently messy process. DBT is itself an interplay of science and practice.

When Is It Used?

With its strong emphasis on emotion regulation skills, DBT is finding application as a treatment for wide range of mental health conditions. They include:

•Personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder

•Self-harm

•Posttraumatic stress disorder

•Bulimia

•Binge-eating disorder

•Depression

•Anxiety

•Substance use disorder

•Bipolar disorder

What to Expect

Expect a course of treatment that typically consist of weekly group, skill-focused instructional meetings as well as individual therapy sessions. Individual sessions usually last an hour, group meetings, usually consisting of four to 10 people, are designed to run for an hour and a half to two hours. DBT is present-oriented and skill-based, and patients are asked to practice their skills between sessions. Patients can expect homework assignments, which might, for example, focus on taking specific, concrete steps to master relationship challenges.

DBT specifically focuses on providing therapeutic skills in four key areas:

•Mindfulness enables individuals to accept and be present in the current moment by noting the fleeting nature of emotions, which diminishes the power of emotions to direct their actions.

•DBT also inculcates distress tolerance, the ability to tolerate negative emotion rather than needing to escape from it or acting in ways that make difficult situations worse.

•Emotion regulation strategies give individuals the power to manage and change intense emotions that are causing problems in their life.

•Last but not least, DBT teaches techniques of interpersonal effectiveness, allowing a person to communicate with others in a way that is assertive, maintains self-respect, and strengthens relationships; a core principle is that learning how to ask directly for what you want diminishes resentment and hurt feelings.

DBT incorporates many of the techniques of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It helps patients recognize and challenge the varieties of distorted thinking the underlie negative feelings and prompt unproductive behavior. For example, patients learn to identify when they are catrophizing-assuming the worse will happen-in order to avoid acting as if it were the case. They review their own past and present experience for instances of all-or-nothing thinking, seeing everything in extremes of black and white, devoid of nuance that is more generally the nature of life.

Mindfulness training is an important part of DBT. In addition to keeping patients present-focused, it slows down emotional reactivity, affording people time to summon healthy coping skills in the midst of distressing situations. Patients are asked to keep a diary tracking their emotions and impulses, a tool that helps them gain awareness of their feelings, understand which situations are especially problematic for them, and use the information to gain control over their own behavior. In individual sessions, patients review difficult situations and feelings they face the prior week and engage in problem-solving by actively discussing ways of behaving that might have delivered a positive outcome. In addition, patients typically have access to therapists between sessions for skills coaching if they are in a crisis.

How It Works

In seeing many health conditions as disorders of emotion dysregulation, DBT is focused on emotions and how they feel ineffectual action patterns. Many elements of the therapy are aimed at teaching patients how to recognize, understand, label, and regulate their emotions and how to handle interpersonal situations that give rise to negative or painful emotions.

Each week, for individual therapy sessions, patients complete a diary "card" (often done via an app), a self-monitoring form that tracks individualized treatment targets relating moods, behavior, and skills. Patients identify and rate the intensity of emotions they experience each day-fear, shame, sadness, anger, pain, suicide attempts, and more-and space is provided to discuss emotional experience in more detail if needed. In addition, using a checklist of skills-which also serves as a handy reminder to deploy them-patients note the frequency with which they engaged in positive practices, from self-soothing and radical acceptance to reducing vulnerability and acting in ways contrary to how they felt.

The information on the diary card let's the therapist know how to allocate session time. Life-threatening or self-injurious behavior take priority, not surprisingly. After identifying the behavioral targets for a session, the therapist helps the patient engage in behavioral analysis, figuring out what led to a specific problem situation the patient encountered, including any underlying beliefs or attitudes that surreptitiously reinforce the behavior, and discussing the consequences of the patients actions. The therapist and patient discuss more skillful ways to solve emotional and life problems.

Because DBT is a demanding therapy to deliver even for experienced therapists, therapists typically work in consultation with a treatment team and regularly meet with a team. The team's recommendations are often applied in individual therapy sessions.

While studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior, patients may require therapy for several years.

What to Look for in a Dialectical Behavior Therapist

A DBT therapist is a licensed mental health professional who has additional training and experience in DBT. Several organizations provide certification in DBT to qualified therapists who have completed advanced academic and clinical work. Certified DBT therapist may use the designation CDBT.

DBT is a comprehensive and multifaceted therapy designed to help patients cope with extreme emotional suffering and, often, self-injurious behavior. Many patients seeking DBT have undergone other forms of therapy without experiencing significant improvement. DBT is a complex treatment modality that makes many demands of the therapist and requires extensive training to be administered in the way it was developed and tested.

Many components of the therapy, such as the skills training, have been adapted to treatment programs that do not reflect the comprehensive DBT treatment protocol. Finding a clinician who has undergone training and certification in the full DBT treatment model can be important to a good outcome.

When seeking a DBT therapist, experience counts. It is advisable to seek a therapist who has not just extensive training but also experience using DBT to treat patients presenting with concerns such as yours.

Important as qualifications and experience are, so is as good fit. As with all forms of therapy, it is also advisable to find a DBT therapist with whom you feel comfortable. Look for someone with whom you can establish clarity of communication.

Here are some important questions to ask a prospective DBT therapist:

•How often have you dealt with problems such as mine before?

•How do you know my situation is a good candidate for DBT?

•How does DBT work?

•What is a typical plan of treatment, and how long is a typical course of therapy?

•How do you measure progress?

•What is the nature of your training in DBT

•Do you provide comprehensive DBT or a modification?

•Do you belong to a DBT consultation team?

•What is your policy on phone calls and emails during the week?

•What length of time do you initially ask a client to commit to?

[space2bheard]

How mindfulness group therapy helps you in mental health wellness?

In today's fast-paced world, where the pressures of daily life can often feel overwhelming, it's essential to priorities your mental health. Group therapy is a powerful approach to improving mental well-being and can be particularly beneficial. It offers a supportive environment for individuals to learn and practice mindfulness techniques, helping them manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.

Those struggling with problems like workplace toxicity, relationship issues or eating disorders in Hull, these sessions might be just the thing you are looking for. In this blog, we will explore six ways group therapy can help you on your journey to better mental health.

1. Building a Supportive Community

One of the key advantages of group therapy is the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are also working on their mental health. In modern cities, where eating disorders and other mental health issues can be particularly challenging, the support of a community is invaluable. Sharing your experiences and struggles in a non-judgmental environment can be profoundly healing. The camaraderie and understanding of fellow participants can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

2. Stress Reduction and Anxiety Management

Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, are at the core of mindfulness group therapy sessions. These techniques can be highly effective in reducing stress and anxiety. Regular practice lets you focus on the present moment, letting go of worries about the past and future. This can be especially helpful in the workplace, where stress is common. The skills acquired in group therapy can be applied to the workplace to stay calm and focused even in challenging situations.

3. Understanding and Managing Eating Disorders

Modern cities have their share of individuals struggling with mental disorders. Group therapy can provide a safe space for individuals to explore the underlying issues contributing to these disorders. By becoming more aware of the physical and emotional aspects of eating, individuals can develop a healthier relationship with food. Mindful eating, a technique often taught in these groups, can help individuals make more conscious choices about their food and improve their overall well-being, including workplace wellness.

4. Improved Emotional Regulation

Individuals are encouraged by mindfulness techniques to objectively observe their thoughts and feelings. This increased self-awareness can help you identify and manage your emotions more effectively. People often develop more balanced and constructive ways of responding to challenging situations. By recognizing triggers for negative emotions, you can learn to react with greater emotional resilience, which is crucial for maintaining good mental health.

5. Enhanced Self-Acceptance

Additionally, self-acceptance and self-compassion are stressed in group therapy sessions focused on eating disorder in Hull. Through mindfulness, you can develop a kinder and more forgiving relationship with yourself. Over time, this can raise one's sense of worth and self-esteem, which makes it simpler to escape the grip of disorders like anorexia or bulimia. 

6. Long-Term Mental Health Benefits

Participating in mindfulness group therapy doesn't just provide short-term relief; it equips you with valuable skills that can impact your mental health. The techniques learned can become a part of your daily routine, helping you maintain emotional well-being throughout your life. Whether you're dealing with common mental health issues, workplace stress, or other concerns, the benefits of mindfulness are enduring.

7. Enhanced Interpersonal Skills

Group therapy sessions offer a unique opportunity to improve your interpersonal skills, as it encourages open communication, active listening, and empathy. By practicing mindfulness alongside others, you can better understand how your thoughts and emotions influence your interactions with friends, family, and colleagues. These newfound insights can lead to healthier, more satisfying relationships and contribute to your overall mental well-being, particularly in workplace wellness, where effective communication and collaboration are essential.

Conclusion

Group therapy sessions can be a transformative experience for those seeking to enhance their mental health wellness, whether dealing with eating disorders or simply striving for a better workplace environment. By joining a supportive community, you can manage mental health problems and gaining long-term mental health becomes easy. You can make significant strides to a healthier mind and a happier life.

And if you're in Hull, take the first step towards better mental health with Space2BHeard. They organize group therapy sessions for all sorts of mental health issues. You may find the answers you've been searching for with a therapy group like that.

[keelies-korner]

Understanding the Power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and effective approach to mental health treatment that has helped countless individuals overcome a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. In this blog, we'll explore the core principles of CBT, its applications, and the reasons behind its popularity as a therapeutic method.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It was developed in the 1960s by Dr. Aaron T. Beck and has since evolved into one of the most widely practiced and researched forms of therapy.

The Core Principles of CBT

Thought Awareness: CBT emphasizes the importance of identifying and understanding our thoughts and beliefs. Many of our emotions and behaviors are driven by our underlying cognitions. By becoming aware of these thoughts, we can gain insight into the root causes of our emotional distress.

Challenge Negative Thoughts: Once we've identified negative or irrational thoughts, the next step is to challenge them. CBT helps individuals examine the evidence supporting these thoughts and replace them with more balanced, realistic, and constructive beliefs.

Behavioral Change: While changing thought patterns is crucial, CBT also focuses on behavioral change. Clients work on implementing healthier behaviors and coping strategies that align with their new, more positive thought patterns.

Emotion Regulation: CBT teaches individuals how to manage their emotions effectively. This involves recognizing when emotions are escalating and using coping techniques to regain control.

Applications of CBT

CBT is highly versatile and can be applied to treat various mental health issues, including:

Depression: CBT has been shown to be particularly effective in treating depression by challenging negative thought patterns and teaching coping strategies.

Anxiety Disorders: Whether it's generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, or specific phobias, CBT helps individuals confront their fears and manage their anxiety.

Stress Management: CBT equips individuals with the tools to handle stress and build resilience.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): CBT techniques like exposure therapy are often used to help individuals process traumatic experiences.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): CBT can assist those with OCD in managing their intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

Eating Disorders: In the treatment of eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, CBT can address distorted body image and unhealthy eating behaviors.

Substance Abuse: CBT is a valuable component of addiction treatment by addressing underlying thoughts and behaviors that contribute to substance abuse.

Why CBT is Popular

CBT's popularity can be attributed to several factors:

Empirical Support: CBT is backed by extensive research demonstrating its effectiveness in treating a wide range of mental health conditions.

Short-Term Nature: CBT is typically a shorter-term therapy, which means clients can often see positive results in a relatively brief period.

Collaborative Approach: CBT is a collaborative process where the therapist and client work together to identify and address issues. This empowers clients to take an active role in their healing.

Practical Techniques: CBT provides clients with practical skills and strategies that can be applied in their daily lives, making it a valuable tool for long-term well-being.

Adaptability: CBT can be adapted to suit individual needs and can be delivered in various formats, including individual therapy, group therapy, and even self-help resources.

In conclusion, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a powerful and adaptable therapeutic approach that helps individuals regain control over their lives by addressing the interplay of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Its evidence-based nature, practicality, and ability to treat a wide range of mental health conditions make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their mental and emotional well-being. If you're considering therapy or looking for ways to address your emotional challenges, CBT may be a promising path toward a healthier, happier life.