Dear Louise: 'I've struggled with body image as long as I can remember'

"For those who don’t struggle with chronic body image issues, it’s difficult to fully understand how exhausting it can be."

Louise O'Neill, author. Photograph Moya Nolan

Dear Louise, I’ve struggled with body image for as long as I can remember. I don’t have any ‘off’ days — I honestly can’t stand the sight of myself. I was sexually assaulted in the past and that’s when I really became disgusted with my body and sexuality. 

Before that I thought I was fat, I struggled with body image and disordered eating, but I wasn’t sexually repressed as I am now. I hate my breasts, I hate the female body and any symbolisation of it. I hope you can offer advice. Thank you.