14 and 14st

Question
Hi,
I'm 14 years old, I turned 14 alsmost 2 weeks ago. I am only 5ft and weight 14'6st. I was wndering because how much it's affecting my life would I be able to get surgery at this age on the NHS for free ? My mum is a drug addict and my dad passed away. I live with my gran who has really no money. However, all my family are obese except my mum and dad. I know I cant blame other people for my weight, its my fault. I've tried dieting, keeping track of my food, dieticions,starcing,excerise and still no luck! I don't know what to do anymre. Its effecting my life so much I've self harmed. I wont go to school, socialise or anything. I feel unworthy of my family because my weight, I am horrid looking becasue of it. I cant live my teenage years!

Please help!

Answer
Hi Kim,

You should know that there are 14 year olds everywhere in the world with problems just like yours.  You should take heart that there are solutions for you.  If you have not consulted with a physician, you should ask your school counselor for some advice on where you can go and who you can see for help.  I know that it is a scary thought to ask for help, but there are people in the healthcare system that are just waiting for you to ask.

Typically surgery is only an avenue taken for adults but in some cases, there are other things that can be done until you are old enough to pursue the surgical option.

If you would, please ask your school counselor or your school nurse for advice and then get back to me, via the ALLExperts website and tell me what you have learned and what path you have decided to take.  I am interested and care very deeply about you because I was extremely overweight myself and my life was saved by my surgeon.

You can be helped out of the problems that seem so insurmountable right now, Kim.  Just ask for the help that you deserve!  You are worthwhile.

Please let me know what path you decide to take, ok?

Thanks for asking,
Steve

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