With all that we know about the human mind, and all the empathy and understanding we're capable of...

Why do we still joke about obesity?

Ten years ago I weighed 300lbs and lost half of it. I was destroyed emotionally and never taught how to take care of myself. My parents self destructed in their 60's. Even though I'm in good shape now and make consistently good choices, there's a big girl inside me that only feels empathy. It was really hard to overcome the cycle of overeating because I was sad then being sad because I overate.

I guess I just don't think it's funny. People are people and everyone is struggling with something.

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Reject · 31-35, M

I think if there’s any degree of perceived choice. Any at all. People lack empathy for that. Congratulations on overcoming so much though. Losing weight is one of the hardest things someone can do.

ScreamingFox

@Reject You're right, I do understand that it is a choice but also that there's a lot psychologically tied to making poor choices for relief. Which I think we all do in some ways, so there's really nothing to taunt.

And thank you. It was hard work, I did it all through healthy eating, eating less and lots of activity. It has stuck with me. Even though I still struggle sometimes, I know what is best for my body and choose health every day.