running to increase fitness

I used to be 180 at 5' 4'' going into high school, it was awkward ever having to take my shirt off but joining a sport or program with other people (football ---> cross country) helped me lose weight, be more confident, and I have made a great set of friends because of it.

Your situation sounds different than mine but that doesn't make it impossible, if you don't care about fixing it, who will?

I would first go to a doctor, find out about if there are any underlying health problems.

I would then join a running club (Niketown stores have a running club on thursday nights where people get together and walk/run 3-5 miles). If walking 3 miles is a little out of reach then get on the treadmill.

Running also releases endorphins (spellcheck?) which basically makes you happy! I am always in a good mood after a hard run. Keep in mind for the first 2 weeks it was pure hell but then I would get the high after the 2 mile mark.

Out of the hundreds of people who I have met through my cross country and track team, I only knew of one kid who had problems with depression (he also skipped a lot of practices).

Remember to take that discontent that you feel (from not being in shape, not going out, not eating right, not being active) and don't just shove it away, realize and acknowledge that it is a problem that you (and only you!) can solve and if you don't it could cause you your life (drastic but that is not completely unreasonable).

It's never too late to turn your life around, just requires some elbow grease and a crap ton of hard work!