Underweight/Overweight: Affecting Your Mind And body / Question
Published: May 7, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a 15-year old female. I am 5'10" and 127 lbs. I need to lose weight to be happy with my body. Could you give me a few hints?
Signed: Unhappy About Weight
Dear Unhappy About Weight,
TeenHealthFX is really concerned about you. It seems from your height and weight that you are already quite thin. TeenHealthFX wants you to look at our answers to body weight, nutritional guidelines and eating disorders.
Your statement that being happy depends on losing weight also concerns TeenHealthFX. By basing your happiness on your weight/body, you are ignoring other important aspects of yourself - like the way you treat others, and your work ethic. It is also important to remember that body size can not be completely controlled; it has a lot to do with genetics! Try to find some non-physical aspects of yourself that make you happy and concentrate on those. Taking pride in your physical appearance is okay, but know that each of us is more than just what is seen.
If you need more information about these issues, talk with a parent or your doctor or school nurse. If at any time you feel overwhelmed by these issues and you live in northern NJ, you can call Atlantic Health System's 24-hour Crisis Hotline at (973) 540.0100. If you do not live in the area, contact your local crisis hotline (local hospitals should have this number available). You can also contact Atlantic Health System's Eating Disorder Program at (908) 522.5757. Also, you can check out our Links section for on-line resources.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Persons aged 15-24, who represent only 14% of the 
