Hi Walker
After all the crap you have been through lately losing weight must be great news for you and something for you to concentrate on. If I were you, I would do the Atkins for only a couple of weeks, and then go on a low fat diet. It may mean a lifestyle change but you were overweight for a reason - which if it wasn't medical, probably meant you were eating the wrong foods. It may sound obvious, but IF you can change what you eat ong term, after having lost your initial 9lbs you have a far better chance of the weight staying off.
Simple things will help. Semi skimmed milk, no sugar, low fat spreads, limited beer, and drinks with low calorie mixers, it may all sound so obvious BUT it will work. Drink low calorie drinks eat less white bread and go for wholemeal instead. Eat more vegetables and for an evening meal, try one of the low fat ready meals that you can shove in the microwave. Don't forget the exercise too. Whether its quick walking, or a little running or swimming, but you must do something! Dieting is never easy, but it depends on your state of mind, and how much you REALLY want to lose any excess weight. If you have been doing the Atkins "proper" and had the funny heads etc, and want to continue, then add a cup of tea with milk. I always maintain that a little of what you fancy does you good. SO if you want a bar of chocolate, have one, but have a smaller one than normal. If you want a night out on the beer, go ahead but promise yourself to work harder to lose any extra pounds gained after a wild weekend.
Keep up the good work Walker. It sounds as if you are turning your life round, and losing weight may be a good place to start. Being able to fit in smaller clothes and having people say how good you look may do your confidence the world of good, especially if you are feeling a little low.
I hope the above helps. Feel free to ask any further questions, but remember, diets shouldn't make you feel hungry nor craving for anything. Just do everything in moderation and try if you can to make changes to your diet on a long term, not just a short term basis or the weight will slowly creep back on. Keep up the good work!!!