How can I overcome anorexia?

I've been having anorexia since I was 15, I'm 23 now. I do eat and my weight is normal, but I keep wanting to stop eating again, I feel depressed and not happy about the way I look. I cry whenever I'm done eating and I feel like I hate myself for eating. I started eating again because I didn't want to let my family down...but I can't help have the feeling that I rather be anorexic and feel pretty than being fat and unhappy.
I am ever gonna feel like eating is OK?, and having a normal weight is OK?
What can I do?

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

Having had an eating disorder for 8 years would definitely make you feel like you will never be able to live a life free of the bondage and obsessions.  You are not alone.  Yet numerous individuals, myself included, have felt as you feel to find they can indeed be freed!  So there is hope, a lot of hope!  Asking for help is the first step.  Next focus your thoughts on knowing and believing you will eat normally, be okay with a normal weight, be happy with and enjoy your body, be fully alive by living your feelings, thoughts and the life you want to live.  You need to believe, perservere and seek support through trusted family and friends, support groups, and eating disorder professionals.  To learn more about eating disorders visit the bella vita website.  Best, Dr Patricia Pitts  Los Angeles, CA