Diary of an Exercise Addict

Dive into the raw and unflinchingly honest world of Peach Friedman's *Diary of an Exercise Addict*, a powerful and deeply personal memoir that sheds light on the hidden epidemic of exercise bulimia. Published in 2008 by Globe Pequot, this First Edition hardcover offers a compelling and cautionary tale of one woman's descent into a life-threatening obsession and her arduous journey toward recovery. In this gripping narrative, Friedman recounts her experiences as a college senior who, reeling from a breakup in 2000, turned to exercise as a coping mechanism. What began as an attempt to alleviate her blues quickly spiraled into a dangerous addiction, pushing her body to its limits with punishing daily runs and severely restricted caloric intake. Within a mere three months, she plummeted from a healthy 146 pounds to a dangerously low 100 pounds, putting her at imminent risk of cardiac arrest. *Diary of an Exercise Addict* fearlessly exposes the realities of exercise bulimia, a newly recognized and rapidly growing eating disorder affecting an estimated 400,000 American women. The book delves into the societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards that contribute to this often-overlooked condition, particularly within the fitness-obsessed culture of gyms and college campuses, which are increasingly recognizing and addressing the issue. Friedman's writing is remarkably candid and vulnerable, allowing readers to witness her internal struggles and the devastating impact her addiction had on her relationships with family, friends, and lovers. She bravely confronts the repressed desires and underlying emotional issues that fueled her destructive behavior, offering a profound exploration of the connection between mental health, body image, and self-worth. Beyond the harrowing details of her illness, *Diary of an Exercise Addict* is a story of resilience and hope. Friedman meticulously documents her recovery process, including the setbacks and challenges she faced along the way. Her journey to self-acceptance and a healthy relationship with her body serves as an inspiration to others struggling with eating disorders and body image issues. This book is more than just a personal account; it's a valuable resource for understanding exercise bulimia, its causes, and its consequences. It provides insights for individuals battling similar challenges, as well as for healthcare professionals, educators, and anyone seeking to learn more about the complexities of eating disorders and the importance of mental wellness. With 208 pages of unflinching honesty and powerful storytelling, *Diary of an Exercise Addict* is a must-read for anyone interested in mental health, eating disorder recovery, and the pursuit of a balanced and healthy life. Peach Friedman's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the possibility of finding healing and self-acceptance, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. The book is categorized under "Friedman, Peach -- Mental health" and "Exercise addiction -- Patients -- United States -- Biography", reflecting its focus on personal experiences and mental health.