As a plus size lady I have my own weight issues. Thanks for being so honest about your struggle. Just remember you are liked/loved no matter what size you are or what you look like. I enjoy your channel. Your friend from California USA.
For many years, I suffered with a love-hate with my body. I suffered a near-fatal bleeding ulcer in my stomach. After three months of therapy, I felt good enough to go back to work. During that healing time, I learned a LOT about myself. The human body is strong, resilient, and you can bounce back. I’m 12 years later, a little bit heavier, but still have my full life, my kid, my grand baby ahead of me. I was puking three-to-four times a day.
Wow!!! I missed this, and i didn't realize you posted this... I also suffered from bulimia for years. mine was connected to PTSD. After I got married, it went away, until my parents and extended family tried to work themselves back into my life.
Sorry to hear about that Joel, Ive never had an eating disorder however, when I decided to turn vegetarian at 14 (I still kinda ate meat until I was 20) I think people were kinda wondering if I had a one. But vegetarian is just a lifestyle it's not an eating disorder so I never fully understand why they said that. But back then it wasn't as common to be one.
Joel thank you for sharing your important story! I was bulimic for 20 years. It actually turned out to be a symptom of OCD. I too attribute my healing to God. I truly believe God gives us therapy and medication. Blessings to you, Joel!
Happy Sunday brother. Much love an kindness you are so open with your life.you are the best.an you are helping so many.much kindness and love joe/Louisiana 🌈❤🤟
Even the people who we admire and that inspires us have their own issues. Be kind and be patient. Everyone has their story and is going through something. Ask the people around you if they are going okay, even the "strong ones" Once again, thank you Joel for opening up and sharing your story ❤️
It’s so important for people, especially men, to talk openly about eating disorders and body image issues because we men often suffer in silence because we are embarrassed because we think it’s only a women’s issue. Thank you for this video ❤️
THANK YOU Joel, I've had so many of the same issues, still striving for healthier habits. It really helps to hear someone I identify with sharing their experiences. I think for me it was a bit different how it started. I had a friend that was going in the Army and seemed to eat all the time and never gain weight, and he just bluntly said "I just throw it up", then proceeded to do so right there. So sometimes I will say I "caught" the condition from that friend.
Thankyou so much for this video Joel, the pressures from society cause us to internalise our issues and deal with them in different ways.....I don't think this will ever change. You are a beacon of hope to many of us......don't let that beautiful light ever go out. Your friend in Miami, Walt
Good for you Joel for overcoming this so quickley .....I was bulimarexic for over 20 years with several relapses...lowest weight 80 lbs......better now but still am underweight....the fear continues but at least managed...TY for your honesty...
Thanks for sharing your story! We don't know anyone who's suffered from bulimia (that we know of) so it was very informative. I'm sure many more people will appreciate you decided to film (and publish) this video ❤️
I too have suffered with bulimia and anorexia since I was in my teens. My mother was bulimic and it nearly killed her many times. It's a battle that never goes away. Every time I eat or think about eating, it is my first thought. I have learned that it will be a part of me forever. I have recently gained weight and it is crushing me. I truly understand it all. Thanks for sharing. I am also a male, and I appreciate you being brave to speak of it.
I also suffered from bulimiia for about 10 years. Some people in my family made fun of me. I almost died from this disease. I was helped with counseling and by GODs help. You are so brave. Thanks and love you.
I love that you have brought this up Joel, I'm sure a lot of guys have suffered through this but not many talk about it. One thing I like to do after I binge eat is going for a walk, it always helps. I have had issues and insecurities with my weight and I was working super hard for a few years, until Covid. COVID has cut into my journey and it's been hard to become or stay motivated. It's obviously been harder here in the US. Hopefully, we can get back to normal soon. Thanks Joel!
I just now saw this. I've had a bad month and I haven't been up to watching UA-cam. Thank you Joel for sharing your mental health story. You give me hope that I too can overcome difficult circumstances.
Thank you for sharing this Joel. I suffered with bulimia in 2017/2018 where I would restrict my food intake for days on end and then binge on loads of food and overuse laxatives because I would be so ashamed of myself for not restricting properly. I also never wanted to admit it either because I felt like I wasn't a 'bad case' and people would think I was faking it, plus I was studying for my pharmacy degree and I was ashamed that I was overusing laxatives as a health care professional with knowledge on how dangerous it could be. In fact there actually was a time where my head of pharmacy didn't believe that I was so sick because I wasn't as 'skinny as someone with a true eating disorder'. That's something I still struggle with even today especially since it was a health care professional telling me this. There really needs to be more education on this topic, even in the health care field which is so wild to me. Thank you for informing people of bulimia, and I'm glad you're doing better!
Thanks for sharing Joel and acknowledging your trials, speaking your truth, while continuing working on conquering your issues. Keep pressing forward, one day at a time. Best Wishes to you. I truly enjoyed your honesty and bravery.
I don't know why this is just now coming on my YT feed. I didn't know this about you. I'm so glad to hear you say, "It's a God thing!" Trying to eat healthy is such a struggle!! Even though I haven't suffered from eating disorders.....eating healthy can still be a problem for people who want to lose weight. 🙋♀️ I prayed I would just be repulsed from unhealthy food.....like it wouldn't "sound good" to me. The past 2 months, it hasn't! I haven't stopped for fast food.....I do eat processed stuff some, but I'm learning and taking baby steps! I'm so proud of you for having the courage to share this journey! You are an incredible human, my friend! Love always! ❤️ And always have your back!
I appreciate you taking the time to share your story. Weight problems can be a life long struggle. As a morbidly obese person this is very personal. I tried to be bulimic but couldn't make myself throw up. I still struggle. God bless you! BTW, the hoodie is amazing and looks so comfy!
Hey thanks for sharing, we always think other people have their lives together, but we all have our own issues we are dealing with. We are all a work in progress.
It's a good thing for you to share your experience. It helps others not feel alone, and it helps you share your secret and helps remove shame and stigma.
Today, my friend sent me the pictures from her wedding that I was in. I looked fat and was sent into a bad place and spent all night binge eating. Thank you for sharing your story.
Joel, thank you so much for being vulnerable and sharing this. I have struggled with bulimia and anorexia throughout my life. I have only recently felt comfortable sharing this with those close to me. People like you sharing, and being vulnerable gives me the courage to share my story in hopes of helping at least one person struggling. Thank you for being amazing and brave! ❤️
Thanks Joel for this video..I am bipolar 1 and have major depression ..ptsd. just so much going on in my life. I do totally understand the bulimia issue over 25 years ago I was doing that eventually everything I ate I would just throw up i wouldn't have to stick my fingers down my throat anymore and that scared me so bad. It was tough. It took a long time to stop completely. Was horrible.
Very brave of you Joel to share this very personal battle you’ve had. I’m sure it will help many people out there who love and respect your honesty 💕😊👍
I'm so sorry that you had to go through this, Joel. I am also so proud of you for putting it out there to help others going through something similar. I love that you use your platform for good like this. By putting your story out there you inevitably reach people with your kind words and honest experience who really need it and put positive, healthy, and heart-felt messages into the world. You're amazing. The world is a better place because you're in it. Wishing you continued progress and health and always excited to see whatever you post next! Love you and your channel! And Ava!
You're right about people nonchalantly tossing out comments about regurgitation. That's how I got the idea years ago to try that as a diet technique. The only problem with that is that for as far back as I can remember I hated throwing up. Ever since I was a very young child if I threw up I would immediately start crying and apologizing for it. When I decided to try it in my late teens I found that I not only wasn't fond of heaving but I also had very little tolerance for the crying jag. Needless to say, bulimia and I never really meshed well together. I loved seeing a content Ava in the background. Enjoyed the video. Thanks for sharing. Glad you conquered your problem.
I was an occasional binge and purge person for awhile after I quit smoking. What stopped me was I did it and saw stars flashing around and it occured to me that my body was trying to tell me something. STOP! And I listened, and never did it or wanted to do it again. Flashing stars=no good.
You're brave for speaking up about it. I suffered too for a couple of years until I started having hair loss and other side effects. I've not really confessed to family or friends it's difficult for sure. Well done Joel xx💖
One thing I really appreciate about you, Joel, is that you are so open and honest with this platform that you have. It takes a lot of bravery to be honest about our failings and how human and vulnerable we are just because we’re human. Good for you! And I’m so glad to hear you be honest about God’s help in overcoming this trial. You are giving Him glory and that is so wonderful. May this video help others who are struggling, and point them to the Way they can find true freedom!
Thanks for sharing. Many people can learn from your experiences. You have a good head on your shoulders and approach life in a positive light. I love your channels. Have a great upcoming week.
no one can top you Joel, your story is incredibly inspiring, you inspire so many people to be there true unapologetic selves, love your videos so much thankyou for sharing your story ❤❤
I don't want to be cringe but Joel we could legit be the same person. I've battled eating disorders/exercise obsession for 15+ years and everything you say in this video completely resonated with me. The shame of labeling your ED, the desire for control, the normalizing of it all...it's all so familiar. Kudos to you for putting yourself out there and thank you for your authenticity. You're not alone!
It's great that you're shedding light on this subject. Mental health is such an influential factor in someone's life and mental health disorders can show up in COUNTLESS different ways, which is why it's great to open up about it. This is the kind of influencing we need! Thanks for sharing, Joel! Stay strong💪 We're here for you!
Thank you Joel. I am really glad you've spoken out about this, especially as a man who's dealt with an eating disorder/issue. I hope this reaches anyone who needs to hear this message. You're a great guy Joel!! 😊💙💎💙
Yep. I had an eating disorder (anorexia) growing up gay (in the closet) in a very religious family and not being able control my surroundings but, like you said, could control what I put in my mouth or not putting food in mouth. I didn't feel I had anorexia b/c it wasn't attributed to men. Once I went to university and went thru a lot of self awareness and depression and medical issue popping up, I was able to "figure" it out. It didn't go away but I figured out how to eat and still maintain control of my life. Medically, I can't starve myself even if I wanted to b/c my body just is not able miss eating food and function, work etc.
Joel, you are such an open, real, relatable person. That's why we love you! We all have our struggles and demons. You being in the world makes it better!
Hi Joel. Thank you for being honest with us. I’m very sure there are people who need to hear that they are not alone in their situations. Thank you for showing us that we are all human. Love and strength, Javier
you have made it very far joel. the two most important steps admitting and getting help. you have all of us too we are here❤ i think you just really have to want to change that's a big part of it .. but yes religion too. I know 2 males in my family and a male friend too it is more common than most know
I've been following you for a while but I just saw this for the first time. This resonates with me so much. I've struggled with food my entire life. I'm always too heavy, too thin... not eating, binge eating... Five years ago I was struggling alcohol abuse so I stopped drinking. After that, my binge eating went off the rails and I gained almost 100 lbs in one year. I'm finally in a place where I haven't had a drink in 4 years and my binge eating has gotten better and is more occasional instead of daily. In the last 8 months, I've already been able to lose 30 lbs again. Every day is a battle and its ok if I dont win every day. Cheers and thanks for the rawness of your post. Even though I'm just seeing it from 2 years ago 😂
I don't have an eating disorder but I am so happy you felt comfortable enough to share your story, which may help someone else. Thank you for your BRAVERY! I love AVA. Joel, keep up the great work!
I'm so sorry that you and Freddie went through that. I'm glad you both are doing better. I hate hearing about anyone having any kind of problem with eating, or any other emotional issue.
That was really very brave and thoughtful Joel. You have the ability to reach thousands of people from all over the world and you’ve used your platform to reach out to others that share your problem. I’m sure that you have helped to recovery at least one person, and probably more. What a completely unselfish thing you have done. Really nice to see heartfelt help. 👍💥☮️
You’ve been really open with us and vulnerable this year. Thank you. ❤️ A physical and mental and even emotional journey you’ve been sharing with us. Continuing to wish the best for you!
eating disorders be POPPIN these days. It's so sad, but it feels almost impossible to have a healthy relationship with food for so many people. Thanks for sharing your story!! It always helps to hear people talk about going through it, but also coming out of it.
This is my first comment ever on a UA-cam video ever. You are so brave for doing this, seeing 5 dislikes on this post...I hope those people's lives get better. I've watched every video from you Lia. My bulimia started at 12, I'm 44 and still have episodes. It's been awhile since the last time and I think that comes with age. I needed your wisdom at your age.
Yes, as a gay male, I too battled bulimia and anorexia since I was 16 back in 1988....and kept it relatively secretive....after being sexually, physically and emotionally abused....and thought if I were thin, people would love me....and I would have will power....I also used laxatives as well too. Now, I am older and it does not consume me. Not saying it does not come back once in a blue moon but it does not control me anymore....32 years later.....and I love myself and try to enjoy life, the good and the bad....
Joel!!! I’ve been binging your videos and you have quickly become my favorite UA-camr. Thank you for sharing your story on such a vulnerable topic. Sending you my thoughts and hugs my friend!!
Thank you Joel for making this video. I hope this will help a lot of people with their mental health issues especially men. Boys please talk to someone, just one person, don’t hold it all in. I’ve had a difficult life having many medical issues, being disabled, body issues and struggled with my sexuality.Is that negative voice in your head saying that you’re not worthy but I only get through life by talking to people about it. I know it’s I am a man and it’s difficult to be vulnerable but it’s the only way forward, to get better and change.
Thank you Joel for your honesty and openness. You have used your experience/platform to encourage and to help, this is something about you that makes me keep watching you! Great job! ~Cara ❤️
Hayley's Podcast: open.spotify.com/episode/1wnO8uGZjQ1LyAZsvUiLan?si=c6YkqnXMQsqp2ue-ZLk-dw
As a plus size lady I have my own weight issues. Thanks for being so honest about your struggle. Just remember you are liked/loved no matter what size you are or what you look like. I enjoy your channel. Your friend from California USA.
Thank you Kelli!
I am right there with you Kelli. I have an eating disorder.
Thank you for talking calmly about this issue and striving to remove the stigma of eating disorders
We need more people in the world like you Joel! Incredibly nice and just an all round nice person ❤️
Aw thank you Thomas!
He is amazing!!!
For many years, I suffered with a love-hate with my body. I suffered a near-fatal bleeding ulcer in my stomach. After three months of therapy, I felt good enough to go back to work. During that healing time, I learned a LOT about myself. The human body is strong, resilient, and you can bounce back. I’m 12 years later, a little bit heavier, but still have my full life, my kid, my grand baby ahead of me. I was puking three-to-four times a day.
Wow!!! I missed this, and i didn't realize you posted this... I also suffered from bulimia for years. mine was connected to PTSD. After I got married, it went away, until my parents and extended family tried to work themselves back into my life.
Sorry to hear about that Joel, Ive never had an eating disorder however, when I decided to turn vegetarian at 14 (I still kinda ate meat until I was 20) I think people were kinda wondering if I had a one. But vegetarian is just a lifestyle it's not an eating disorder so I never fully understand why they said that. But back then it wasn't as common to be one.
Proud of you, Joel.
Joel thank you for sharing your important story! I was bulimic for 20 years. It actually turned out to be a symptom of OCD. I too attribute my healing to God. I truly believe God gives us therapy and medication. Blessings to you, Joel!
Happy Sunday brother. Much love an kindness you are so open with your life.you are the best.an you are helping so many.much kindness and love joe/Louisiana 🌈❤🤟
Even the people who we admire and that inspires us have their own issues.
Be kind and be patient. Everyone has their story and is going through something. Ask the people around you if they are going okay, even the "strong ones"
Once again, thank you Joel for opening up and sharing your story ❤️
It’s so important for people, especially men, to talk openly about eating disorders and body image issues because we men often suffer in silence because we are embarrassed because we think it’s only a women’s issue. Thank you for this video ❤️
I agree! You're so welcome
These kind of videos from you are my favorite... open, honest and friend to friend.
I appreciate that
I'm so glad you felt comfortable with coming forward. I think you stopped purging because, you were ready. And therapy helps. Blessed be.
THANK YOU Joel, I've had so many of the same issues, still striving for healthier habits.
It really helps to hear someone I identify with sharing their experiences.
I think for me it was a bit different how it started.
I had a friend that was going in the Army and seemed to eat all the time and never gain weight, and he just bluntly said "I just throw it up", then proceeded to do so right there.
So sometimes I will say I "caught" the condition from that friend.
Thankyou so much for this video Joel, the pressures from society cause us to internalise our issues and deal with them in different ways.....I don't think this will ever change. You are a beacon of hope to many of us......don't let that beautiful light ever go out. Your friend in Miami, Walt
Good for you Joel for overcoming this so quickley .....I was bulimarexic for over 20 years with several relapses...lowest weight 80 lbs......better now but still am underweight....the fear continues but at least managed...TY for your honesty...
Thanks for sharing your story! We don't know anyone who's suffered from bulimia (that we know of) so it was very informative. I'm sure many more people will appreciate you decided to film (and publish) this video ❤️
Thanks guys. That's very kind of you!
I'm glad you told us Joel. Be well, you deserve it.
We all have challenges and weaknesses in life. I wish you good health and happiness. YOU.ARE.GOOD.ENOUGH. Take care.
I too have suffered with bulimia and anorexia since I was in my teens. My mother was bulimic and it nearly killed her many times. It's a battle that never goes away. Every time I eat or think about eating, it is my first thought. I have learned that it will be a part of me forever. I have recently gained weight and it is crushing me. I truly understand it all. Thanks for sharing. I am also a male, and I appreciate you being brave to speak of it.
I also suffered from bulimiia for about 10 years. Some people in my family made fun of me. I almost died from this disease. I was helped with counseling and by GODs help. You are so brave. Thanks and love you.
I love that you have brought this up Joel, I'm sure a lot of guys have suffered through this but not many talk about it. One thing I like to do after I binge eat is going for a walk, it always helps. I have had issues and insecurities with my weight and I was working super hard for a few years, until Covid. COVID has cut into my journey and it's been hard to become or stay motivated. It's obviously been harder here in the US. Hopefully, we can get back to normal soon. Thanks Joel!
Thanks for being very truthful about this subject. Hopefully it will help out one person who is suffering.
Thanks Donnie! I hope so!
I just now saw this. I've had a bad month and I haven't been up to watching UA-cam. Thank you Joel for sharing your mental health story. You give me hope that I too can overcome difficult circumstances.
Thank you for sharing this Joel. I suffered with bulimia in 2017/2018 where I would restrict my food intake for days on end and then binge on loads of food and overuse laxatives because I would be so ashamed of myself for not restricting properly. I also never wanted to admit it either because I felt like I wasn't a 'bad case' and people would think I was faking it, plus I was studying for my pharmacy degree and I was ashamed that I was overusing laxatives as a health care professional with knowledge on how dangerous it could be. In fact there actually was a time where my head of pharmacy didn't believe that I was so sick because I wasn't as 'skinny as someone with a true eating disorder'. That's something I still struggle with even today especially since it was a health care professional telling me this. There really needs to be more education on this topic, even in the health care field which is so wild to me. Thank you for informing people of bulimia, and I'm glad you're doing better!
Thanks for being vulnerable, Joel, as always. Means a lot to me.
Of course! Thanks for watching
Joel, you are such a brave, kind soul. And so eager to help others. Thank you for that!
Thank you for sharing your story Joel ❤️
Thank you for being brave and sharing with us. 🖤
Vulnerability is how we make deep and meaningful connections. Thank you for sharing. Much love to you. ♥️🥰😘
What an important service you gave by sharing your story, Joel. Blessing to you, from Portland Oregon USA.
Thanks for sharing Joel and acknowledging your trials, speaking your truth, while continuing working on conquering your issues. Keep pressing forward, one day at a time. Best Wishes to you. I truly enjoyed your honesty and bravery.
I don't know why this is just now coming on my YT feed. I didn't know this about you. I'm so glad to hear you say, "It's a God thing!" Trying to eat healthy is such a struggle!! Even though I haven't suffered from eating disorders.....eating healthy can still be a problem for people who want to lose weight. 🙋♀️ I prayed I would just be repulsed from unhealthy food.....like it wouldn't "sound good" to me. The past 2 months, it hasn't! I haven't stopped for fast food.....I do eat processed stuff some, but I'm learning and taking baby steps! I'm so proud of you for having the courage to share this journey! You are an incredible human, my friend! Love always! ❤️ And always have your back!
Thanks for sharing what you went through.
I appreciate you taking the time to share your story. Weight problems can be a life long struggle. As a morbidly obese person this is very personal. I tried to be bulimic but couldn't make myself throw up. I still struggle. God bless you! BTW, the hoodie is amazing and looks so comfy!
I WANT THAT HOODIE!
Thank you for sharing . You are so honest.
Love your channel. ❤️.Just be yourself &
Be well Joel.💜 xx
Thanks for this video. Very informative and empathetic.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your honesty. You will be helping many people.
Joel, thank you so much for sharing - it's so true, a problem shared is a problem halved!
Hey thanks for sharing, we always think other people have their lives together, but we all have our own issues we are dealing with. We are all a work in progress.
Sending you lots of love and light! You are worthy of love and deserving of joy just the way you are! Thank you for being honest and brave!
Good for you Joel.
It's a good thing for you to share your experience. It helps others not feel alone, and it helps you share your secret and helps remove shame and stigma.
So glad your whole and healthy and don’t do that anymore dear sir! Hugs! ❤️
Today, my friend sent me the pictures from her wedding that I was in. I looked fat and was sent into a bad place and spent all night binge eating. Thank you for sharing your story.
Joel, thank you so much for being vulnerable and sharing this. I have struggled with bulimia and anorexia throughout my life. I have only recently felt comfortable sharing this with those close to me. People like you sharing, and being vulnerable gives me the courage to share my story in hopes of helping at least one person struggling. Thank you for being amazing and brave! ❤️
I'm sorry you've struggled with eating disorders too! But thank you for telling me! It's so reassuring to know there are others out there! ❤️
Thank you for always being such an honest and refreshing presence on UA-cam.
Thank you ❤️
Thanks Joel for this video..I am bipolar 1 and have major depression ..ptsd. just so much going on in my life. I do totally understand the bulimia issue over 25 years ago I was doing that eventually everything I ate I would just throw up i wouldn't have to stick my fingers down my throat anymore and that scared me so bad. It was tough. It took a long time to stop completely. Was horrible.
thanks for sharing your story joel so proud of you
Love you Joel! Proud of you
Very brave of you Joel to share this very personal battle you’ve had. I’m sure it will help many people out there who love and respect your honesty 💕😊👍
I'm so sorry that you had to go through this, Joel. I am also so proud of you for putting it out there to help others going through something similar. I love that you use your platform for good like this. By putting your story out there you inevitably reach people with your kind words and honest experience who really need it and put positive, healthy, and heart-felt messages into the world. You're amazing. The world is a better place because you're in it. Wishing you continued progress and health and always excited to see whatever you post next! Love you and your channel! And Ava!
You're right about people nonchalantly tossing out comments about regurgitation. That's how I got the idea years ago to try that as a diet technique. The only problem with that is that for as far back as I can remember I hated throwing up. Ever since I was a very young child if I threw up I would immediately start crying and apologizing for it. When I decided to try it in my late teens I found that I not only wasn't fond of heaving but I also had very little tolerance for the crying jag. Needless to say, bulimia and I never really meshed well together. I loved seeing a content Ava in the background. Enjoyed the video. Thanks for sharing. Glad you conquered your problem.
I was an occasional binge and purge person for awhile after I quit smoking. What stopped me was I did it and saw stars flashing around and it occured to me that my body was trying to tell me something. STOP! And I listened, and never did it or wanted to do it again. Flashing stars=no good.
You're brave for speaking up about it. I suffered too for a couple of years until I started having hair loss and other side effects. I've not really confessed to family or friends it's difficult for sure. Well done Joel xx💖
One thing I really appreciate about you, Joel, is that you are so open and honest with this platform that you have. It takes a lot of bravery to be honest about our failings and how human and vulnerable we are just because we’re human. Good for you!
And I’m so glad to hear you be honest about God’s help in overcoming this trial. You are giving Him glory and that is so wonderful. May this video help others who are struggling, and point them to the Way they can find true freedom!
Thank you. I have an eating disorder. I even know why but can’t get to the change. Maybe one day
Thank you for sharing this, Joel! Takes a lot of courage to tell your own story, struggles and all.
Thank you Chris! Hopefully it'll help a few people!
Thanks for sharing. Many people can learn from your experiences. You have a good head on your shoulders and approach life in a positive light. I love your channels. Have a great upcoming week.
no one can top you Joel, your story is incredibly inspiring, you inspire so many people to be there true unapologetic selves, love your videos so much thankyou for sharing your story ❤❤
Just one more reason we love and admire you, Joel.
I don't want to be cringe but Joel we could legit be the same person. I've battled eating disorders/exercise obsession for 15+ years and everything you say in this video completely resonated with me. The shame of labeling your ED, the desire for control, the normalizing of it all...it's all so familiar. Kudos to you for putting yourself out there and thank you for your authenticity. You're not alone!
Thanks Joel for sharing this topic with us all, keep up the good work 👍
Thanks Stephen
Well I'm glad you did post this video.
It's great that you're shedding light on this subject. Mental health is such an influential factor in someone's life and mental health disorders can show up in COUNTLESS different ways, which is why it's great to open up about it. This is the kind of influencing we need! Thanks for sharing, Joel!
Stay strong💪 We're here for you!
Good on you!! These video's will help alot of people..I just recently figured out Binging isn't normal and I am almost 52
Thank you Joel. I am really glad you've spoken out about this, especially as a man who's dealt with an eating disorder/issue. I hope this reaches anyone who needs to hear this message. You're a great guy Joel!! 😊💙💎💙
Yep. I had an eating disorder (anorexia) growing up gay (in the closet) in a very religious family and not being able control my surroundings but, like you said, could control what I put in my mouth or not putting food in mouth. I didn't feel I had anorexia b/c it wasn't attributed to men. Once I went to university and went thru a lot of self awareness and depression and medical issue popping up, I was able to "figure" it out. It didn't go away but I figured out how to eat and still maintain control of my life. Medically, I can't starve myself even if I wanted to b/c my body just is not able miss eating food and function, work etc.
Joel, you are such an open, real, relatable person. That's why we love you! We all have our struggles and demons. You being in the world makes it better!
Hi Joel. Thank you for being honest with us. I’m very sure there are people who need to hear that they are not alone in their situations.
Thank you for showing us that we are all human.
Love and strength,
Javier
I hope it can be helpful!
you have made it very far joel. the two most important steps admitting and getting help. you have all of us too we are here❤ i think you just really have to want to change that's a big part of it .. but yes religion too. I know 2 males in my family and a male friend too it is more common than most know
I've been following you for a while but I just saw this for the first time. This resonates with me so much. I've struggled with food my entire life. I'm always too heavy, too thin... not eating, binge eating... Five years ago I was struggling alcohol abuse so I stopped drinking. After that, my binge eating went off the rails and I gained almost 100 lbs in one year. I'm finally in a place where I haven't had a drink in 4 years and my binge eating has gotten better and is more occasional instead of daily. In the last 8 months, I've already been able to lose 30 lbs again. Every day is a battle and its ok if I dont win every day. Cheers and thanks for the rawness of your post. Even though I'm just seeing it from 2 years ago 😂
Mental health is a very personal story! Thank you very much for sharing your story and thoughts go out to you wishing I could do more to support you!
I don't have an eating disorder but I am so happy you felt comfortable enough to share your story, which may help someone else. Thank you for your BRAVERY! I love AVA. Joel, keep up the great work!
I'm so sorry that you and Freddie went through that. I'm glad you both are doing better. I hate hearing about anyone having any kind of problem with eating, or any other emotional issue.
That was really very brave and thoughtful Joel.
You have the ability to reach thousands of people from all over the world and you’ve used your platform to reach out to others that share your problem.
I’m sure that you have helped to recovery at least one person, and probably more.
What a completely unselfish thing you have done.
Really nice to see heartfelt help.
👍💥☮️
Thank you for your honesty Joel. You’re a good man
Thank you for sharing, Joel.
Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for listening
Thanks Joel 💖
Joel -- WOW. Very brave of you to publicly admit that you battled this dreadful disease. GD Bless Joel. I'm glad you're now well. Hugs.
I am SO proud of you for coming forward and being brave to help break the stigma! ☺️
Admire your honesty. Sorry you've experienced an eating disorder. I'm sure this will help people who have experienced the same. X
Thanks
You’ve been really open with us and vulnerable this year. Thank you. ❤️ A physical and mental and even emotional journey you’ve been sharing with us. Continuing to wish the best for you!
eating disorders be POPPIN these days. It's so sad, but it feels almost impossible to have a healthy relationship with food for so many people. Thanks for sharing your story!! It always helps to hear people talk about going through it, but also coming out of it.
Sending lots of support as always.
Thank you Leo!
This is my first comment ever on a UA-cam video ever. You are so brave for doing this, seeing 5 dislikes on this post...I hope those people's lives get better. I've watched every video from you Lia. My bulimia started at 12, I'm 44 and still have episodes. It's been awhile since the last time and I think that comes with age. I needed your wisdom at your age.
Your honesty about your condition, helps break down the stigma, surrounding mental health. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you ever so much for your kind and wise words. You’re a top-notch influencer. Your words mean a lot to me 💕
Respect for you for sharing this. If it touches even one person in the same situation, it’s worth it. No one is ever “alone.” 💙 Cheers!
You sharing your story will help a lot of people! Stay strong!
Good job, Joel!!!
Thanks for sharing this, Joel!
I’ve been there with anorexia at one point and didn’t even realize it for years cuz it was just my normal.
Yes, as a gay male, I too battled bulimia and anorexia since I was 16 back in 1988....and kept it relatively secretive....after being sexually, physically and emotionally abused....and thought if I were thin, people would love me....and I would have will power....I also used laxatives as well too. Now, I am older and it does not consume me. Not saying it does not come back once in a blue moon but it does not control me anymore....32 years later.....and I love myself and try to enjoy life, the good and the bad....
Joel!!! I’ve been binging your videos and you have quickly become my favorite UA-camr. Thank you for sharing your story on such a vulnerable topic. Sending you my thoughts and hugs my friend!!
Aw thanks so much! Welcome!
Thank you so much for sharing this, Joel! R-E-S-P-E-C-T!
Thank you Joel for making this video. I hope this will help a lot of people with their mental health issues especially men. Boys please talk to someone, just one person, don’t hold it all in. I’ve had a difficult life having many medical issues, being disabled, body issues and struggled with my sexuality.Is that negative voice in your head saying that you’re not worthy but I only get through life by talking to people about it. I know it’s I am a man and it’s difficult to be vulnerable but it’s the only way forward, to get better and change.
Thank you Joel for your honesty and openness. You have used your experience/platform to encourage and to help, this is something about you that makes me keep watching you! Great job! ~Cara ❤️
Thanks for sharing Joel 💖