From what you have said it seems like you have a lot going on at the moment. Sometimes you are really hungry and eat a whole lot and then other times you are not hungry. Your weight is in the healthy weight range and that is great.

Compulsive eating is when someone impulsively binges on food and gains weight rapidly. They do this as there is something missing in their lives and they are trying to nurture and comfort themselves. There are many reasons why someone eats compulsively. For example, it could be possible that someone feels anxious, has low self-esteem, does not feel adequate and feels they cannot be good enough. All of these thoughts can lead to people feeling sad and frustrated and then they turn to food. Also when people are stressed then they don't feel hungry and won't eat and you said that you feel like this too.

You want to return to your old ways and I am not sure what they are but I suggest that you work out a healthy eating plan, have regular meals and keep a bowl of fruit or healthy snacks around the house so when you want something to eat you can grab an apple for example. It is also important to exercise each day and to also relax and have some fun with your friends.

To help break the cycle you are in I would try the following:

• Try and be aware of what your negative thoughts are. You may find your thoughts are not based on anything but exaggerations. Once you know what your negative thoughts are, challenge them and replace them with a more positive thought.
• Keep a diary of what you were feeling when you were binging. Once you know what triggers your overeating then you can come up with ways to distract yourself. For example, you could go for a walk, phone a friend, read, take a shower.

You mention that you have been unhappy and I wonder if it would be useful to talk to a trusted adult or school counsellor about what your sadness is about. Talking through your problems with someone else can be really helpful. Thanks for writing in and take care.