Depression/ loneliness and weight loss

Kate8628

I wanted to find out if anyone else suffers with depression and loneliness? I find it very difficult to stay on a diet plan as when I get depressed I tend to turn to food which in turn makes me worse. I also spend 97% of my time on my own (apart from my children) and I find this hard as well.
I know it’s not an excuse at all but having no one to talk to makes me feel like I am the only one trying to lose weight while dealing with the above. Anyone got any tips? Advice etc? Would be appreciated thanks

TavistockToad

Firstly, treat the depression, then;

make pals on here

join a club

start a new hobby

kommodevaran

Split it up. To lose weight, you just have to eat less. Depression can make you want to eat, but it doesn't make you eat. You can't control your emotions, but you are in charge of your actions. Good habits makes everything easier, but you still have to make priorities and stick to your commitments and get out of your comfort zone and tolerate occasional discomfort. Create, build and strengthen good routines that are in line with your values and preferences. Exercise moderately. Make and enjoy delicious, healthy meals.

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kenyonhaff

Come to these boards when you can - it helps to see heck no, you are not alone!

How old are your kids? It helps to go to playgroups and story times and so on, not just for the kids but other parents as well.

sschauer513

In all honesty not to sound mean seek out professional help through dietitian or mental health professional depression is serious problem and very few can really get out of it by themself. It is nothing to be embarrassed about to ask for help we can help here to a degree but your situation is best to fixed by professionals.

JamesEfird

Several years ago, I was laid off from a job for the first time ever. I sank into depression and ate my way out of it. Even while playing Mr Mom, I just could not shake it off until I found another job.

When I got laid off from another job a couple years ago, the YMCA gym became my savior. Being able to talk to folks there while not eating myself into oblivion was the best thing that I could have done. Plus, because I was in the gym regularly, I was more conscience about my eating habits, too.

So no. You definitely are not alone. And there are ways to help you through. You just need to find the method that works best for you.

elisa123gal

when you feed your body healthy whole foods, cut the junk and sugar...you will start to feel better. your depression could be linked to a bad diet. cut out soda and drink a lot of pure water each day. Get active on here..and once you feel a bit better make yourself spend some time being social, especially with your kids.
Also. .i'l add i am an introvert. i used to think i was lonely...but i'm not. i actually enjoy my own company and don't enjoy social settings very much. It is just how i am ..and i don't over analyze it any longer. So, don't confuse being introverted to being lonely. However, i spend tons of time with my husband and enjoy the company of quality people.

macgurlnet

TavistockToad wrote: »

Firstly, treat the depression, then;

make pals on here

join a club

start a new hobby

I second this. Get a handle on your depression first.

I tried changing my diet, making sure I was getting enough sleep, keeping a good exercise routine. Those things weren’t enough for me and I’m on an anti-depressant now.

Talk to your doctor or a therapist about this. Once you have the depression handled, try to find a hobby you enjoy. Coloring and working on puzzles are two of mine now

If you’d like some socializing, see if your local library or rec department has some free or inexpensive activities you and/or your family can participate in.

~Lyssa

Kate8628

Thanks everyone. When the weather is ok for a pushchair I always get out for a walk and in these days I feel so much better but with this snow that’s come in I have been stuck in the house and it’s started getting me down. I have stuck to my diet today in order to stop that down wood spiral. I do struggle to go out socially because I have 3 kids youngest is 5 Months and all the baby toddler groups I go to I feel very out of place. My husband works most of the time and all my family live far away so it’s a lonely world sometimes. I will come on here when I need to though. Thanks for the support and yes I agree I need to see someone about my depression. I am speaking to my doctor next week.

macgurlnet

Kate8628 wrote: »

Thanks everyone. When the weather is ok for a pushchair I always get out for a walk and in these days I feel so much better but with this snow that’s come in I have been stuck in the house and it’s started getting me down. I have stuck to my diet today in order to stop that down wood spiral. I do struggle to go out socially because I have 3 kids youngest is 5 Months and all the baby toddler groups I go to I feel very out of place. My husband works most of the time and all my family live far away so it’s a lonely world sometimes. I will come on here when I need to though. Thanks for the support and yes I agree I need to see someone about my depression. I am speaking to my doctor next week.

I find most things in my life are easier to deal with when my depression is under control.

I certainly still do have bad days, but the medication has worked wonders. Winter is still tough, but it's better.

There's nothing wrong with going to one of those groups and maybe bringing a book along - people watching can be fun

~Lyssa

bbell1985

I do. But I am used to being alone and find that it's easier for me to stay on track. I tend to isolate myself even more when I'm dieting. My friend is the gym, so I'm there a lot.

DebLaBounty

Glad you’re seeing your doctor. I moved to Alaska six weeks before I gave birth to my son. All my friends and family were then a three hour plane ride away, and I felt isolated and depressed. My doctor prescribed an antidepressant that was okay to take while breastfeeding. I also got a SAD light. I got a backpack carrier for my infant and a snowsuit he could wear while I took walks on cold days. I got Skype so I could visit far away people I love. It was so helpful to see their faces and talk! And it’s free!

Years later I discovered Meetup.com. Check out this website. You plug in the name of your town and your interests, and you get a list of groups that meet up. I did one that was just women getting together once a week to drink coffee. I joined a group that went on easy walks and hikes which was welcoming for kids. Another group gets together to sit and knit. I joined a quilt guild, and now I visit four of those women outside of our guild meetings.

kimothyschma

Depression is something that’s ongoing. It can be managed, and you absolutely should do your best (with your doctor) to manage it. But you can’t wait til it’s dealt with to take other action in your life. It might always be there. Making friends and becoming more social, leaving the house, etc will probably all help you manage your depression.

I’m in the same boat, stay at home mom to 2 small kids, dealing with depression. Mine is not severe, luckily. Eating healthy foods and exercising have really helped me manage it. I have also mostly been on my weight loss journey alone. I have a few people I can message when I reach a goal and who support me, but I don’t tell anyone about the low times. Add me if you’d like a friend!