I lost 16 lbs. via calorie counting years back. During the first year, I lost at least 9 lbs. I bought a food scale and set myself a limit of 1600 calories a day, but you could get away with more or less depending on your age, metabolism, and exercise habits. I'd definitely encourage you to give this a shot, rather than starving yourself. I stuck to it for years before a bunch of bad shit happened and I got super pessimistic about dating and let myself go. Wellbutrin is supposed to be the best antidepressant for the weight conscious, but of course ask your doctor and YMMV. I only just started on it today so I can't share my experience with it yet.