Let's talk about Eating Disorders, Body Dysmorphia & Body Image

[@carmen_rose_444]

i’m glad that a man is finally publicly talking about body image. it’s not a woman problem. it’s a human problem.

[@kyrlics6515]

Facts my ugly ass insecure af

[@elenastefan8047]

Shane Dawson talked about this too

[@moonjae-in8464]

Not the first.

[@__-fh3cv]

Another man on yt who is open about his Ed story is CrimsonStudios

[@mathildecatelain9381]

Carmen Gonzales YES !!! I wish more buys were vulnerable about this subject !

[@tealover9473]

we stan a bicon who can talk about sensitive topics in a respectful way. 👏🏻 👑

[@ellagibbons1416]

omg yes 👏👏👏💥❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

[@lemonaaaa]

Plz make a video about the romanticization of eating disorders next Edit: I forgot to thank you for talking about such a touchy subject and educating more ppl about this as I’ve struggled with an Ed personally!

[@Ohwowok137]

mo nowa yes!

[@RenMinMan]

please!! like entertainment/media does not do it justice

[@littleblackfish]

Great idea !

[@tessr2304]

I would like that too because it's another important topic, but i don't think Luke's channel should become exclusively serious, i like the fun and lighthearted videos too, but he should just be making video's he enjoys making so whatever he decides to post is fine 😊 and i think your suggestion is definitely a good idea

[@tanihehe]

PLEASE DO IT MAN!! you make the best content when it comes to touchy topics...

[@bubbles13bubba]

"I don't think that you need to only like your body when society likes it" THIS

[@lauratheexplora4936]

Thank you for opening up about this because not many men talk about body image and eating disorders. I appreciate a nice honest KZbinr so thank you for being personal on your channel.

[@Wotsit31]

I agree with the part of it always staying with you. Something about anorexia nervosa/ body dysmorphia makes it almost impossible for you to ever, ever completely erase the same thoughts from your mind. It really doesn't ever leave you.

[@lydialuton4402]

My mom had anorexia in high school and nearly died from it, and to this day she doesnt enjoy eating, though shes been recovered for decades

[@LukeAlexander]

Simile, Not Smile its a daily struggle but that’s why we need to override those negative thoughts with positive ones❤️

[@LukeAlexander]

Lydia Luton my mom is the same problems, it’s so hard to fully recover from it

[@Wotsit31]

@@LukeAlexander- I'm so glad you made this video- it's made a bigger difference than you might think. I've met so many people who are like, "Just eat, is it that hard?" and they just don't get that it IS. Also, my butt has always been naturally big too lol.

[@janesmith7274]

same with bulimia. you won’t ever look at food the same.

[@Spineczka009]

I feel like mukbang culture nowadays highly contributes to eating disorders. Could you please speak about it in another video? Also: thank you very much for opening up about your ed, it takes courage ☉

[@LukeAlexander]

Kathy Bell oh that’s very interesting I haven’t thought about that way before

[@kevaunthesunflower]

Yes, yes, yes! I can't even watch mukbangs!

[@miso8090]

Kevaun McClorrine I loooove food but I definitely used to have a disordered attitude towards it, and mukbangs are so triggering and awkward for me.

[@writergrl7283]

And we wonder why people such as Trisha Paytas battle severe weight issues. Nik has also said he does, probably most Youbers do right?? As far as Trisha, Ive said SO many times watching her eat anything on camera is like watching someone snort a line of coke,shoot up, or having sex in front of you-- its so awkward! You get this sense theres something off about her "mukbangs,"her food addiction is disguised as a "eating show." Much like if a KZbinr downed an entire bottle of tequilia & titled it "Tiny Tequilia tasting." No one would ever take a seat & watch someone OD in front of them.

[@pollygotacracker9396]

I personally hate mukbangs because I think they’re disgusting and a last minute upload. I hate watching people eating and the food usually looks so greasy and yuckk

[@owndenoobs888]

this is off topic but youve been through so much youve had a very interesting and intense life but it has really matured you and moulded you into an amazing person

[@LukeAlexander]

juliana thank you so much❤️

[@marjorie1875]

I was just watching your “Romanticising Mental Health” video for the first time, it had appear on my recommendations multiple times but I just never watched it, and I wanted to thank you for speaking on these topics. I was diagnosed with depression by a psychologist around 2 years ago and what you said about people who joke about depression and anxiety just to be relatable and funny without thinking of the impact it may have on people really resonated with me.

[@LukeAlexander]

Marjorie I’m glad you resonated with the video and I hope you’re doing well❤️

[@marjorie1875]

Luke Alexander I am! Thank you ❤️

[@vallariemallarie]

as someone who struggled with an ED for a long time here’s some red flags if you think you may have one: calorie tracking apps, thinspo tags, constantly picking at small details of your body, eating less when you dislike how you look, not eating at home so you can eat when you go out, worrying about your appearance, hoping to hear someone mention your weight, etc. please talk to someone if you or a loved one is struggling 💕

[@jacksonv5138]

tag yourself, i’m calorie tracking apps.

[@alexishamer6230]

See I related to all of that and more (attempting to throw up, diet pills, writing down all my calories, measuring my waist daily, weighing myself every other day) but I still can’t bring myself to believe that I didn’t do it all for attention. I see other people’s stories and I just feel awful because I feel like they’re going through so much worse and I’m always just asking myself if I faked it or if I’m faking it because I crave attention, I just always feel like an awful person whos romanticizing mental illness and being stupid and selfish

[@huntermeek7450]

@@jacksonv5138 I'm 'constantly picking at small details of your body'.

[@bonsaiplant6731]

​@@alexishamer6230 ik this was posted 2 years ago but i just wanted to say this since i did similar things when i was younger; the reason why you were doing these things doesnt change the fact that you were doing them to yourself in the first place. it doesnt change the absolutely terrible effect doing those things have on your physical and mental health, it doesnt change the fact that you were actually sad and those feelings were real, not faked. all it changes is your own personal path to recovery. perhaps you didnt have that exact disorder you were "faking", but the fact is, you were still in pain and youre not an awful person for being in pain. its okay to have been stupid and selfish in a world that teaches you its the only way to be loved, all that matters is that youre aware of what you did now and why so you can avoid relapsing

[@tearsintheraincantfeelthep475]

I used to hate my thighs as well and now people tweet stuff like "*crush me with those thighs daddy*". How the times have changes.

[@dayfly4004]

been in a recovery process since march, seeing a youtuber im passionate about watching talking about these issues means so much to me. thank you for telling your story 💕

[@PaigeMiehls]

DAYFLY I know how tough this is, stay strong my love!! 💞

[@LukeAlexander]

So proud of you, hope you’re doing well❤️

[@Jjjjjjjj27]

I started recovery in March too:) I hope you’re doing well

[@rememberiri5600]

Luke lemme just say, I’m glad you’re talking about this because it makes me and I hope some other pple feel less alone.

[@amandacao632]

god i just want to give you a hug. thankyouthankyouthankyou for speaking up about such sensitive topics, especially when it's so difficult, you are going to help so many people.

[@LukeAlexander]

amanda cao that’s all I want to do so thank you❤️

[@breannarose888]

you’re so so underrated and just know i appreciate u and your POV sm. thank you for being vulnerable

[@LukeAlexander]

Breanna Rose thank you so much❤️

[@nevamarie3776]

i’ve struggled with severe body dysmorphia since i was 13. it’s been hell because for the last two years i wasn’t even able to look at myself in the mirror. it’s still a struggle but i’m slowly healing 🖤

[@Sarah-x9m5g]

Truth is, no one actually cares!! When people look at you they dont see what you see. They dont see your insecurities they just see.. You. And they really aren't that bothered. How you look has no impact on their lives. Only your personality and your relationship with them. And ive found when u stop obsessing over appearance you can give so much more of yourself to a person, a conversation, a relationship.

[@thuychi1107]

It's lovely that you made silly commentary videos as well as deeper meaning ones. I feel like I have a friend that will be there in my best and worst moments.

[@LukeAlexander]

Thùy Chi this comment 🥺❤️

[@k_a_y_l_e_e]

1:26-1:54 yes. 100%. absolutely. this is not said enough. i've been "recovered" from my anorexia for a couple years now but i still struggle with it: if my anxiety gets bad, i'll stop eating. if my depression starts to hit, i'll not only stop eating but i'll start going for long walks as a form of compulsive exercise to rid myself of calories. eating disorders are no joke and they are really, really, _really_ fking exhausting. recovery is hard but it is totally worth it because living with an eating disorder is far more difficult than recovering from one.

[@terciopelo]

Throughout my life I've felt one step away from an eating disorder many times but I believe one of the things that kept me away from it was that when I was around 12 or 13 I learned what eating disorders were and the consequences of it. Mental illnesses don't just go away, we have to work constantly on not letting ourselves slip back into our destructive habits. Thank you for opening up about such a personal thing.

[@LukeAlexander]

Sharon C its a daily struggle but we just need to stay strong and beat those negative thoughts

[@billierishious7735]

This video helped me out a lot. Thank you thank you thank you from the bottom of my heart ♥️

[@LukeAlexander]

billierishious I’m so glad it did, much love❤️

[@Mereno1989]

Eating disorders run rampant in my fam. My sis had one in high school and I thought she was nuts. We had a lot of bs in my fam at the time and I boiled it down to coping with stress. I realized I do the same thing now when I’m stressed as hell. I don’t eat and lose weight fast! So it can sneak up on ya.

[@aquaarts3681]

I dont have an eating disorder but when you were talking about obsessing over your weight and body image it really hit home for me. Its so nice to see a male talk about this because its not only women who suffer from this. Thabk you

[@kageyamatobio1854]

whenever i eat i feel so guilty afterwards...

[@LukeAlexander]

babyboy tae just remember that you’re nourishing your body by eating not harming it❤️

[@kageyamatobio1854]

Luke Alexander thank you i’ll try and keep that in mind💕

[@questionable803]

You're about to be at 100k! I'm literally waiting 😂😂😊😊 ❤️❤️❤️ Edit 2: I know this video is very serious but I didn't realize at first and I really am super excited for 100k. In case anyone reacted different (mad or whatever)

[@Busykian]

Averi Natsuki same!!

[@KileyKeeling]

ME TOO

[@annaeverett1999]

I used to eat one meal and starve myself for the rest of the day. My appetite almost not existed. My new job basically forces me to eat breakfast (I work at a kindergarten). I go to work, eat breakfast with the kids, play with them on the playground (playing catch in the summer heat is exercise for me lol) and then eating lunch. My mental health got better which also led to me eating more and more everyday. I met a guy that *loves* food and he basically encourages me to eat more by cooking with him or just ordering something. Good company and a healthy mind is so important. I still struggle but it got so much better. Thank you for uploading this video❤

[@chelseyasp]

Thank you for being the voice for everyone who this affects in real life. Body image, body dismorphia and eating disorders are things that are very important to talk about but it isn't easy for people to talk about it so I respect you for having the courage to talk about this. It is honestly such a taboo topic so it is amazing to see this being talked about more.

[@LukeAlexander]

Chelsey I agree, spreading awareness helps people feel less alone and more empowered to seek help

[@MarenAltman]

though i never struggled with binge eating or bulimia - my issue has been anorexia / ocd behaviors - it's so interesting how we both had abusive alcoholic mothers. so much of exactly what you described, with the lack of dependable food growing up, and the narcissistic lying issues, hit home. i wish you the best of luck & healing for both of us on this journey.

[@triciah2630]

I'm glad you shared with us, we're always here for you. You help me distract myself from my eating disorder and I really appreciate you. ❤️❤️❤️

[@nicolenolte9478]

This video speaks so much into my life I'm literally crying. Wow, Luke, this was needed. You're needed. Absolutely everything, from the overeating to the exercise addiction. Even the IBS. I relate so hard to all of this, and I've never had anyone to speak to about this. I know I'm not the only one. You make such a massive difference in so many people's lives in so many different ways through your videos. I'm so sorry you've gone through all of this but you're really making such a difference by sharing your experiences. I honestly don't know what I'd have done this year without your channel as a distraction. Keep doing what you're doing because you're doing great ❤️

[@meenaljuneja4792]

I love how you cover the topics that are actually helpful to people in a funny and serious manner at the same time( Idk how) so people don’t feel uncomfortable 💕

[@sudecelik8053]

It was great to hear your struggle journey. I didn't think you would suffer from an eating disorder, especially binge eating. When I heard that you did, I felt relieved and less lonely because I still have binge eating disorder and I sometimes tend to get binge urges and when I binge, that day is ruined and literally nothing can make me feel good. I get bloated and just feel so fat that I can even cry and tease and beat myself about it. As days go by, I slowly get back to normal and have more self confidence. But this has been like this for over 3 years now and even if I can never get rid of it, I mustn't let it become an obstacle to my goals and dreams. Even though I have this and will probably struggle with it through my entire life, I never give up on life and give myself in, because I can't. I want to fill this life with achievements ,unforgettable memories and LOVE. Just pure innocent love. I can't let binge eating disorder and my unhealthy relationship with food to control over my life. And I see that you are doing the same and I can feel it. I can feel what you felt. Doing these videos is helpful both for you and us. Just thank you for sharing this.

[@kayeaster7157]

I have never heard a man talk about body dysmorphia, bulimia, anorexia, or any other body image problems. It had honestly never even been a thought in my mind that men could suffer from bulimia, so thank you for opening my eyes to that ❤ you are so brave

[@carolinefrum]

So glad you opened up about this. I struggled with anorexia in middle school/ high school and recovered a few years ago. It’s definitely something a lot of people don’t understand and I love that people are opening up a conversation about it.

[@LukeAlexander]

Caroline Frum hope you’re doing well now❤️

[@carolinefrum]

Luke Alexander awe thank you I’m fully recovered now

[@apricotliv9613]

So much respect for you ✊💕

[@saskiaberloo4318]

You really got right how seemingly harmless comments and behaviors can affect a person so deeply. Of course the eating disorder is the actual issue, but comments from others can instigate or amplify it. Thank you so much for your openness and realism ❤️

[@No-ps2zf]

I don't want to comment on how hard your life seems to have been, because I know it doesn't mean a thing said by a stranger on the internet and, even if you opened up about it, I can tell that is not the thing you want people to focus on in the video. Just know I really respect you a lot for all you decided to share. I'm 25 and I've struggled with anorexia and bulimia since I was 16. I "recovered" from it when I was 19. You said that it never actually leaves you. You are right, but not completely right: I swear to you that it gets better. A lot better than it is now. Last year I found myself eating, drinking, exercising without thinking about calories and appearances. Maybe even more light-heartedly then a "normal" person. When I realized that, I was amazed because I thought that there was always going to be a residue of my eating disorder in the back of my mind, but for a whole year it was gone. It goes away, at some point. You always remember how it was, of course, but you feel really different about it, it's like thinking about a friend you weren't able to help and that now is fine and safe. You didn't give up and by doing that you did half of the job. Now do not resign yourself to the idea of ​​having to live with an eating disorder forever, because it's not true. It doesn't have to be true.

[@Ifiwasachiwhuaehua]

It really hit me when you said you would eat and seem fine at school but then at home you wouldnt do anything or eat. When I was in high school for a long time I lived on just school lunches and never ate anything else and I was always exhausted and slept most of the time I was home. I never did it for vanity I was just so depressed I wasnt hungry. Then when I started regularly eating again and gaining weight (basically just beginning to reach a healthy weight) I felt like I was getting fat because I had always been very underweight and had a weird relationship with food where I just would forget to eat and never feel hungry and never want to eat. Now I'm feeling myself showing signs of relapsing and it's always comforting to hear other people's recovery experiences and helping me feel less alone with my illness. Thank you.

[@Anna-th2ok]

Thank you so much for this video. I overcame my eating disorder at age 10. At the time I felt so alone and all I wanted was to be skinny like my classmates. I eventually got help but it took my parents a while to notice anything. I think people don't always realize how young it can start.

[@Morgan-ow7de]

I have IBS & body dysmorphia too & I completely relate to what you mean about feeling so fat because your so bloated. Sometimes it still makes me so depressed even tho I know I'm not fat, I just look in the mirror and feel so disgusted with how I look. Thank you for making this💗 always comforting to know im not alone. I'm glad you're doing better & have a better life now

[@isabellapaez4807]

I really understand that this video is kinda hard for you but your always strong and I love that about you and also not related with the video but your also 2k away from 100k I was here since 56k and I’m so proud.Ahh love you the most

[@LukeAlexander]

Isa’s Space aw thank you❤️

[@toastshine]

I’m watching this video having not eaten in about 24 hours. This basically reminded me that I should get up and get some food. Thank you Luke, it’s really good to spread the message.

[@InspectorBuster]

Ive struggled with an eating disorder from ages 8 to now (24) and it’s been binge eating for most of it, but also starving, STRICT diets and exercise addiction. My teenage years were the worst and when you mentioned sitting on your kitchen floor shoveling food in your mouth from the fridge it made my stomach drop because I remember those nights so well. I have my eating under control for the most part now but you’re right on when you say it’s something that’s always on your mind. Every time I walk past a mirror or any reflective surface, I look at myself to see if I look “acceptable” aka “not fat”. I hate it. I’ve stopped doing diets and I just do my best to make healthy choices every chance I get. I care about being healthy and strong, but the obsessive thoughts are always there. Stay strong Luke, and everyone here with a similar story ❤️

[@evserza2647]

I hope you are doing good no matter who you are! 😍😍 Also, Luke, you are such a great youtuber, i wish you so much joy, and a good life! 😍 Edit: omg, 27 likes? Ahah thank you so much 😘

[@LukeAlexander]

Spongebob Squarepants aw thank you❤️

[@evserza2647]

@@LukeAlexander 😍 you replied 😍😍

[@Ohwowok137]

Thank you for sharing your story. I’ve been recovered for two years now :) My dad was always hard on my family about weight because a lot of my family on both sides are obese. I always heard things like “no boy will want you if you’re over 100 pounds” and that I was going to grow up to be obese. I went from restrictive eating like skipping meals to binging and purging and taking laxatives+diet pills. A year ago I had a massive string of health problems from a medication called doxycycline, and it caused my esophagus to shrink so small that I couldn’t eat solid food for two months. I lost 17 pounds. I got to what had always been close to my “goal weight” which was 105. I looked in the mirror and realized “wow I look unhealthy because this weight isn’t natural for my body. I can’t weight to gain some weight back”. So in a way, getting sick helped my body dysmorphia! Sometimes we think “I will do ANYTHING to get to my goal weight” when in reality, getting to that goal weight won’t fix the problem. I always thought my dad was right about my body, but now I realized he’s been suffering from his own body dysmorphia for years (bulimic). He was just projecting his own insecurities on me, which is usually the case when others make us feel like we aren’t enough. You are enough.

[@LukeAlexander]

Olivia L oh my god so sorry you had to go through that all, that’s so fucked! I’m so glad you’re doing better now and I hope things just get even better. Proud of u❤️

[@Ohwowok137]

Luke Alexander thank you!!!❤️❤️love your channel and the positivity you bring !❤️🙏

[@jonsey_2730]

Something that I love a lot, recoverING. I always hate when people think you go to rehab or any type of therapy you are all of sudden better. You are constantly fighting and you are so so strong.

[@Ibody-oz5oj]

Honestly cannot stress how grateful i am for this video

[@nikkicaptures]

thank you for having the courage to speak up about this. sending hugs!!

[@emilymartinez2785]

Thank you for finally shedding light on men with eating disorders and breaking that stereotype !! It’s not just skinny white teen girls who have eating disorders, people of all ages, shapes, races, and genders are affected with eating disorders.

[@backup2928]

Thank you for this video. I used to struggle with an eating disorder and like you mentioned “it’s always in you” because it still affects me to this day. I normally would avoid these videos because they trigger me but I really needed this video. I enjoy your videos and how you’re so real so I’m so thankful that you addressed this topic.

[@LukeAlexander]

Back Up stay strong, it gets easier ❤️ proud of you

[@backup2928]

Luke Alexander Oh my god this means so much, thank you :,)

[@samspam1788]

I'm happy that you talk about this part of recovery where you're technically "recovered" but still dealing with urges and thoughts. I feel like nobody wants to talk about this because it's not shocking and in a way, its much more complicated than the behavioural stage. You're very strong ❤️

[@jamie102]

i'm really struggling with ana right now and finding this video was like a saving grace. you are so smart, mature, amazing and not to mention so strong for coming out of something as dark as an ED. I felt a really big sense of comfort listening to you. thank you.

[@kristoferpaunonen9650]

The fact that you talk so openly about these darker times in your live and more serious topics in general makes me appreciate you even more. I'm also really sorry about all the negative things you have been through and I hope that you continue to learn and get better❣

[@maggiesaunders9713]

This video is a blessing, Luke. I am a high school cross country runner who is very curvy on the bottom end, and all my xc friends are lean and tall and thin. In middle school, I would under eat and over excersize. But today, I eat a balance of proteins, carbs and fat, and I make sure to eat vegetables but I can also feel comfortable eating what I want. This was really nice to hear from a male perspective too, bc most of my friends are dudes and I didn’t think I could talk to them about this. I feel confident in my body today because I know that I am strong, and I can reach athletic goals and fuel my body

[@berfinserin]

This video speaks to me on so many levels. I first engaged in bulimic behavior when i was 17 and it continued for a good 9 months. Like you, at the time i thought it was such a brilliant idea, while everyone was going on diets i thought i had found a shortcut to lose weight. I was over exercising to the point where i would get dizzy and nauseous from replaying cardio videos multiple times. After 9 months, i opened up to my mom because it was just exhausting to live with. She told me i could sign up to a gym after my uni exam but that until then i needed to focus on the exam and made me promise i wouldn’t repeat it. I stopped for a while but then i repeated it in some periods of my life cause it had become some type of self harm over time. It also affected my relationship with my family. People don’t fully understand what having an ed is like unless they experience it. These are disorders that people often don’t have control over, but many people just can’t acknowledge that fact. No matter how hard you try to get rid of it, ed is just kind of always there in the corner of your mind, ready to show its face especially during the hard times. Thank you so much for sharing your story. It’s a very touchy subject but we definitely need to talk about it more.

[@kyrad]

thank you for speaking about this, i relate so much to your story with your body so hearing everything you’ve said has been so relieving to know i’m not the only one. i love you so much, you’re one of my favorite youtubers please keep making videos because i love your honesty, humor, and authenticity. 💖

[@LukeAlexander]

kyrad thank you so much❤️ this means a lot to me😌

[@renaerufus8707]

I love your 2 cents on the body acceptance movement. Thanks Luke! More people need to say that!

[@savannahwolfe3746]

only 8min and im already emotionally enveloped. the beginning of my story is really similar (i.e. alcoholic parents, my brother & i getting taken away, almost getting put into foster care but our grandparents took us in, and being overwhelmed by the regularity and general abundance of food.) i've never heard anyone share such a similar story, so i just wanted to say thank you for letting yourself be vulnerable. even the smallest of details can help someone :-)

[@Gingerbreadgorl]

This is so important. I appreciate the fact you're shining some light on male eating disorders but still found it so, so relatable as a female. Mental health issues know no gender, age or race.

[@Paroxysm0_0]

Thank you talking about this subject. My brother has had several eating disorders from a young age and it makes me so relieved to see a guy talk about this. Seeing my brother tear himself down and refuse to go outside because of his body was very hard to witness. Due to society we fail to realize that these types of struggles are not exclusive to girls. So thank you for opening up about your struggles with eating disorders. I hope you are doing well ily!❤️☺️

[@lesiakriachko771]

For some reason it’s so relieving to hear someone say exactly what you feel

[@grimseiji]

I'm so glad you filmed it in this way, it made me feel a lot more comfortable and calm esp w such a sensitive topic. Great job :)

[@alainarenee1851]

thank you for making a video about this. i’ve been struggling with anxiety and body image and i have talked to my older sister and mom about my anxiety. my sister for about a week was very nice and then she and i got into in a fight. she said “you act like your dad but you’re just trying to be quirky”. that made me feel like the worst person in the world. i told my mom and she’s been treating me like a machine who had to be fixed. she’s like “that’s not ok, you’re not supposed be like that. i’m going to get you a doctor because that’s not normal.” and it’s true, i do need help, but she just says it in the worst way possible. i feel like i can’t trust anybody and that i’m all alone. i feel like the most ugly person in the world, and i feel like i need to exercise every day and i need to slim my thighs, and get abs. and the fact that i go to a catholic school where all that matters is how much money you have and what you look like, does not help. i have someone in my life who is so visibly trying to be quirky by saying she so “anti-social and has social anxiety”. when they visibly don’t. i then research up anxiety disorders and i compare myself to the symptoms and i realize, i probably do have an anxiety disorder and it scares me because i know people will look at me like my mom does and i don’t want that. i feel like i’m drowning and there’s nothing that can save me. i’ve had a knife in my hand while i was home alone making avocado toast and i just thought what if i ended it now. but i feel this sense of responsibility to be there for people and it hurts so bad. i cry myself to sleep almost every night and i want to feel better but i’m scared of the people who will give and get me help. i’m embarrassed all the time by nothing and i worry about every single thing and i just want it to stop. you should know luke, that your videos do really help me and i appreciate you so much. thanks to whoever got this far. 💛

[@giannahayes6721]

Sometimes i watch videos like these to trigger myself and fuel my eating disorder. Im definitely not going thru anything as serious as what you have, but i understand the feeling and the thinking behind it. Ive been to the points where ive almost purged, and ive loved the feeling of starving myself. I really applaud you for speaking about this so openly and for being so brave and perservering. Seeing you come so far is really inspiring and helpful, at least for me.

[@ratman3670]

thank you for making this video. it’s very informative and helpful. i didn’t actually realize that i had an eating disorder until i was 11 and had to go to the hospital for kidney failure due to severe dehydration and starvation.

[@tini92ful]

I have severe IBS as well. Totally understand that struggle. It truly takes a long time to find out what your triggers are and how to eat healthily to avoid them. I can't imagine that issue with an eating disorder as well. I hope you are finding a healthy balance. You have such a sweet personality and I love your videos. Keep taking care of you ❤

[@COOL4799]

I'm glad you made this because looking out for people around you is SO important. I basically never ate in high school but since I was overweight no one really batted an eye. Like people would point out I didnt eat lunch but then when i dismissed it as not being hungry no one really questioned it. It was hard because I felt alone. I try to watch out for those around me because of it all

[@sabrina-gabrielfreeman3574]

Just found your channel and realized that not only do you make good content and talk about real, relevant shit that I can relate to but you're ALSO vegan. Absolutely love this and can't wait to binge watch your videos 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@AnnaLeBelle]

Thank you so much for opening up to us about this and I really relate to a lot of your story. Having food scarcity since childhood really affected my relationship with food and I also went from anorexia to bulimia to binge eating and back again. I’m really glad that you’re doing so much better with it and I hope that I am able to recover as well. This topic is so important to talk about and I’m glad that I was able to hear it from you 🙌🏼

[@lunagirl4039]

I want to say thank you *Luke* for creating a safe space to come together... So much of humanity is torn by race baiting, negativity, or fear of being vulnerable bc often the vulnerable is perceived as weak (the furthest from truth) & often that vulnerability or honesty is shamed. so THANK YOU thank you for sharing & leaving an opportunity for others to share &/or help one another ♡

[@lillier1596]

My friend and I were talking about how much we like your videos literally a few hours ago. Ty for talking about how mental illness is portrayed in the media and sharing your personal experiences. Ik it will help a lot of people.

[@cinnamojelly]

You were so brave to share your story and I really appreciate it. Not enough people understand how diverse and varying eating disorders are and you really explained it a great way. I went from having anorexia to purging to chewing and spitting. I am much better now but I always felt weird about it because I never heard of anyone really having multiple disorders and their disorders changing before. It's comforting to know I am not the only person who has struggled with something like this. Thank you for your amazing channel.

[@jungkookieisacutie9602]

I agree with this so much and I'm so happy to see a man talking about this publicly. Today marks 1 year since I've been recovering from My Bulimia nervosa. I agree 100% when you said It's something that's always in you. Sadly I think about it every day, worrying about my weight, looking in the mirror constantly picking myself apart. But I am really proud of you for talking about this. We need more people to spread awareness about this. You've helped me a lot and especially with this video!

[@tanletheorymarajadesateles6722]

I suffered from Anorexia a few years ago, and this video specifically opened my eyes once more. Your perspective can be multifaceted, and just most comprehensively understanding. I became anorexic because people bullied me for being “overweight”, and I was already very conscious about my own weight, so I dropped all the way to 127 pounds which at my height is extremely underweight. I knew that I lost so much weight, but I hid the truth and denied it, that was the most difficult aspect accepting the truth, and realization that I suffered from a eating disorder that was nearly emotionally crippling. That was almost 2 years ago, now I’m 197 pounds and personally building more muscle for myself. Each year, I’m gaining more weight, and it makes me feel what I am meant to be. The validation I believe should be within one self, and not on others! The fact that people appreciate me, when I express emotions through art is not just validating but it’s my dream, and my singular uttermost passion! Thanks for your videos as always!

[@justalittlebitartsy4654]

I’m so glad this guy is part of the community. He clears the air about a lot of subjects that are in peoples lives and I really think that’s important to balance out the crap that’s in KZbin and on Instagram. Love your vids ❤️❤️ Also this helps a lot of people and I really think people need to hear this. His past is so sad but now he can reflect on it and teach others.

[@rileyjoseph3689]

I've had an unhealthy relationship with food my whole life. Hearing another guy my age discussing the topic is sooo refreshing, thank you (:

[@mr.beancouldbreakmyspleen643]

I can not thank you enough for talking about this. I’m currently in recovery from anorexia and it’s been half a year since my recovery began. I now can say that recovery is one of the hardest things I’ve had to and will continue to experience. It’s so hard to not slip back into your old habits and eat “junk food” (which I thought was honey nut Cheerios last year......pretty crazy) and even just stay committed to recovery. I know that a small part of me isn’t ready to give up my disordered thoughts completely and I know they will always be a part me. But I’m still hopeful and I really do hope that time will heal everything and just taking one day at a time will make it easier. I began recovery when I began junior year in high school. I was also taking 5 AP classes (advanced placement classes) such as biology, calculus, English literature, etc. which added a lot of stress. Junior year is the most important year as colleges really pay attention to your grades that year. Coming from an Asian family that wanted me to have perfect grades made it even harder and although I finished junior year with straight As and top scores on all my exams, I still felt and feel empty. I’m also an artist and I even had the opportunity to work at the Federal Food and Drug Administration over the summer, but for some reason I never felt good enough. Everyone was always telling me how talented I am but all I wanted to hear was that they think I’m skinny and healthy and fit or whatever. Hearing you say that we should all be proud of the things we work for instead of things we can’t control really just hit me. You’re right though. I think I will try to appreciate the things that I have accomplished this year instead of only nit picking at my body and crying in front of the mirror. I know that I see someone different in the mirror and I wish I could see what I really look like. But that will take time so I think I’m just going to ignore this for now and focus on what REALLY defines me. I hope that anyone else struggling will soon learn to live and love themselves and I also wish you the best in your recovery. Thank you again for making his video. This is helping so many people. You are truly an inspiration.

[@nehaiqbal2433]

I can't wait for u to hit 1 million😩💞

[@annab9143]

You’re so strong for talking about this. It feels less isolating knowing that others have experienced what you have. Thank you! ❤️❤️

[@LukeAlexander]

Anna ._. 😌❤️

[@dimmiek]

i cried watching this. thank you for talking about it, i think it's something that really needs much more attention because like you said - no one knows what goes on behind closed doors, it's honestly alarming how easy it is to hide your thoughts. thank you

[@idfk.ceciii]

I love when you do videos like these

[@bymurph]

Body dysmorphia is a constant struggle that is very hard to talk about and acknowledge. We feel ashamed of our bodies and have a hard time appreciating the beauty which really matters. For a long time I focused on working on my body when I should have been working on my character. In the end we need to love ourselves because if you don’t love yourself now losing weight isn’t going to suddenly make you happy. Thank you for speaking up and telling your story. It is so validating to hear someone talk about this in such an honest way. As always, every video you do affects me in a positive way by making me laugh, cry, or just find entertainment in a funny, sweet, and kind, man of youth. It is refreshing for someone to be so real and leave all the bullshit behind. Rooting for you and supporting you💗

[@lucyywlmwia]

i really appreciate you talking about your struggles, you are so so brave. ive been suffering with ED (mainly bulimia) for around 6 years now, im still struggling, not really in a recovery yet. i wanna say, i relate to you strongly because you are the only one ive seen talking about ED coming from the background of an alcoholic parent and that is basically what happened to me as well. i noticed a lot of those ED survivors' stories talk about how their childhood was so perfect and didnt really predict anything bad could happen and thats great, im happy for them, but its just refreshing to see someone like you who didnt come from a supportive background, just like me. i can feel everything you said in this video. keep going man, you are doing an amazing job ❤️

[@lailaj4011]

It’s true about eating disorders never really leaving you, I’d been recovered for about 4 years but even during that time I’d have to force myself to eat because my mind naturally goes towards the idea that I should starve myself, especially when I’m feeling down or stressed, but other than that I was doing really well and was even enjoying food, I didn’t worry about what I was eating, but recently I put on some weight (because of my prescription) and I’ve just been spiralling and not eating even though I know it won’t make me lose weight. I relate so much to your experience here and after seeing this I really want to get out of this negative mind space I’m in right now and really look after myself, so thank you so much for making this video x

[@kristywilliam4043]

I'm so proud of you for opening to us like that. I strugled with eating disorders as well and I am sure this video will help someone. Back then no one talked about this topic, I'm glad it's slowly changing now.

[@nissi3441]

I’m so happy that you were able to talk about this because it takes a lot of courage to talk about these sensitive topics that not many ppl like talking about

[@onsounis2210]

I was exercising while watching this because I binged all day today and seeing that you have overcome your eating disorder really makes me believe that I could someday

[@luyandzakhoza7260]

A fellow South African here 🇿🇦! I fully relate to what you’re saying and thank you for using your platform to spread awareness and positivity 💓

[@chrm101]

This video is great, I think it’s great that you’re speaking up about this because I feel like especially with men this topic isn’t given enough attention and awareness because people automatically think only women struggle with eating disorders. Very well done Luke :)

[@valenciahidalg0]

I appreciate that you talk about serious topics and even share your personal stories with us.

[@audreymamelle3812]

Hey Luke, I just wanted to say that I'm so proud of you for talking about this difficult topic. You have gone through so much and you should be proud of yourself for being able to recover!

[@sarahrov1]

I’ve been recovering from anorexia for a while now. Like you said it really is a daily struggle. What helps me is to look at my destructive thoughts in a different way. Through meditation I learned to observe thoughts for what they are: don’t push them away or take them as the truth. Observe and let go whatever does not serve you. This really helps me to deal with my negative thoughts, I hope it can help someone else too! ❤️

[@nelele]

I'm 23 now and started to develop an eating disorder when I was 16. I was extremely restrictive and exercised like a maniac even though my body was progressively getting weaker and weaker, so really not in a good place back then. I think what you said about recovery is very true ... After about a year and a half I started eating "normal" amounts again and stopped being on a diet constantly because my body forced me to when I started to be unable to pay attention to my classes. With the help of very very wonderful people in my family I managed zu bounce back kind of, but it wasn't over then... my mental problems are still a thing but during last summer I felt healthy for the first time in a very long time. What I experienced shaped me and I don't believe that I will ever be the same again, that I will ever be careless and free again, but since last summer, I am pretty damn close. It takes time and it surely takes a lot of effort, because it requires the willingness to open up and to be 100 percent honest to yourself even if thats hurtful. But I believe that you can grow beyond that 💗

[@freedomlogan7257]

It's really easy to put your idols on a pedestal of happy and healthy, and you can never know the things that people have to go through on a regular basis, so I'm very happy that you shared your story with us.💙 I hope you continue to get better. And share your journey with us. Ilysm💙💙

[@carmemas6197]

You just inspired me so much you have been through a lot and you seem happy and stable, you've had so many issues with your mom, eating disorders, crazy roomates and you stand here today just bringing an amazing vibe you are awesome.

[@peytonbopper]

thank you for making this video! it's really brave to talk about something so personal, so publicly and i know that this video will help a lot of people. i grew up with an extremely mentally ill, alcoholic mother as well as being bullied for my weight and it really does take a toll on you. i've struggled with eating disorders since i was 9 years old (i'm 19 now) and i understand how hard it is. i feel really inspired to get help though. seeing a dietitian has been on my mind for a while and you've inspired me to finally seek one out. thank you for sharing :') 💗

[@KileyKeeling]

You’re literally my favorite KZbinr, and I’m in awe of the honesty and vulnerability you’ve shown us. As someone who is still recovering from an eating disorder I really appreciate hearing stories like yours. ❤️

[@LukeAlexander]

Kiley Keeling thank you so much❤️ and I hope you’re doing well

[@KileyKeeling]

Thank you! I’m doing a lot better than I use to be, and I hope you’re doing okay too with your video, and your story, being out. ❤️❤️

[@lexiehoy8487]

as someone who has constantly hated their body and barely ate enough to sleep, or barely ate enough to fit in size 00 jeans at American Eagle. I realized I needed to grow from it once my family took me the doctor and told me if I got worse I’d be sent to Pittsburgh for treatment, and I was terrified. It took some time, to love my body. And two years later I’m still not in love with my body and I still don’t eat enough or I eat too much. But thank you, for sharing this!💛

[@terihowell]

I'm glad you talked about this because not enough people talk about it. When I was younger I had an eating disorder also it was a combination of anorexia and bulimia and had body dysmorphia but in the early 90's didn't know it was called that. Last year I had a really unhealthy relationship with exercising and stopped exercising. A few months ago I started working out again and I have a much healthier relationship with exercising and with food which took time. I love the content you put out and wish you nothing but blessings and success in every aspect of your life .

[@dionneodaine6326]

youtubers barely make personal videos like this anymore. i feel for you and everything you’ve been through so much. you’re so strong 🖤

[@carmemas6197]

Thank you for stating that eating disorders have different shapes, and I just want to say that I also have body discordia and a digestive problem, I can't eat diary, sauces etc. So I literally I look in the mirror one day and think I almost have abs and suddenly another day I'm so bloated due to my dysmorphia and digestive problem. But is something I've learned to accept about myself and still working on it, thank you again for speaking up about this.

[@carmemas6197]

Ps. just subscribed :)