Thanks for the support. Having never really talked about my problems I’ve found writing to this forum a release and a means of helping me address my issues. I hope you’ll understand my needs.

I look awful because firstly, in the very long term I have let my physical health deteriorate. I’m obese and have not looked at myself in the mirror for years. More recently, in the past few months things have been coming to a head and I’ve been sleeping poorly, eating badly and have been told I’m not looking too well. I caught sight of myself in the mirror and it was not a pretty sight.

My physical looks and poor health form a major part of my lack of self respect and a realisation that I have wasted a large part of my adult life. I could have done so much more and hurt others less if I’d have sought help years ago.