Imposter syndrome after weight loss — my results so far

Adding the clinical framing, because it changes how the question reads.

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

Before (279 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.

After (184 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: 79 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.

KevinCompounds said:

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in: Before (279 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications,…

Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 81 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.

KevinCompounds said:

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in: Before (279 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications,…

Agreed, and the size of the effect matters as much as its existence. Something real and small gets treated here as though it were real and decisive.

Ask again with the specifics and you will get a better answer than this one.

KevinCompounds said:

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in: Before (279 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications,…

That reframing is the part I needed. I will report back once I have actually tried it.

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