Need new coping method for exhaustion/pain

NaturalMom
NaturalMom Posts: 85
edited September 2024 in Motivation and Support
I finally realized that my worst binges / uncontrollable snacking happen when I am exhausted or in pain. For the past couple of months this happens toward the end of the day (every day) before my husband comes home. I am a stay-at-home mom so adequate pain-relievers and rest are not an option. I am scheduled to have surgery for the pain next week, but since the recovery time is a couple of weeks I can bet that this will continue to be a problem for a little while. Usually I cope with cravings by distraction or drinking lots of water or exercising. None of these work for the exhaustion/pain triggers, tho. I know it is mental and I can totally overcome it, but I just don't know how. Does anyone have any suggestions for alternative coping mechanisms?

Replies

  • jrbowers83
    jrbowers83 Posts: 282 Member
    First of all I'm sorry to hear that you're in so much pain, and I hope that you have a wonderfully smooth surgery that corrects this soon. You didn't say exactly what you're having the surgery for, so I'm giving some kind of general advice in the hopes it can help your situation. I am also a SAHM, so I know EXACTLY what you mean about the exhaustion, and that it gets worse with the pain. (For me, I tend to have flare ups of joint pain or intense abdominal or back pain, all of which is undiagnosed as any particular medical condition and therefore I can only treat the symptoms). I have found that hot tea with a little honey and lemon help not only with the exhaustion, but might be a good alternative to drinking water and curb the appetite. Coffee works too, but I try not to drink too much coffee, especially if you're already having issues with exhaustion-the caffeine really messes with your sleep patterns, starting a vicious cycle of can't sleep at night, drag all day, drink coffee to pick you up, have resultant crash when caffeine wears off, exhausted but can't sleep at night...you get the pic. For the pain, a combo of a heating pad, followed by an ice pack is a great home remedy. I know it may feel like you don't have time to lay down with a heat pad/ice pack and I don't know your kids' ages, but what I've done is shut myself in my daughter's room with both my kids (age 16mo and 6y) and let them play all around me while I lie on the floor. Then I instruct them on how to pick up from the floor. This can go on for up to an hour, which is more than adequate. Now I'm still in pain not long after the heat/ice, but have been away from food and distracted by kids, so unable to munch, have rested to overcome my exhaustion, and can now fix dinner for kiddos. Also, try munching on low-cal healthier snacks if those temptations are just overwhelming. 1 cup of berries+2 tbsp Cool whip free is less than 100 cal and very filling. The kids like to help me eat it too.
  • Aurora22
    Aurora22 Posts: 66 Member
    Do you have much experience using herbal tinctures? my herbalist recommended 'Skullcap' tincture to help with the aches and pains of pregnancy. the plant is in the mint family and totally safe. It is not strong, does not make you drowsy, and basically just takes the edge off. it is available at natural food stores.
    also, I like to drink green tea whenever I get the urge to eat in the afternoons. I buy loose leaf and it is much more satisfying than the bagged stuff.
    i know dealing with pain and exhaustion will take a holistic approach, but these are just some ideas that may help...
    Take care,
    A
  • ivykivy
    ivykivy Posts: 2,970 Member
    Have you tried yoga, tai chi or meditation? Is it physical pain or psychosomatic? Turmeric is a natural pain reliever as well as other herbs and spice. Ginger and cinnamon are soothing agents.
  • schaapj2
    schaapj2 Posts: 320 Member
    3 words......HOT BUBBLE BATH!....Throw on a little Enya and darken the room with a few candles and its insta-pain free stress relief for me......sex is always a good pain reliever too :P
  • schaapj2
    schaapj2 Posts: 320 Member
    3 words......HOT BUBBLE BATH!....Throw on a little Enya and darken the room with a few candles and its insta-pain free stress relief for me......sex is always a good pain reliever too :P
  • NaturalMom
    NaturalMom Posts: 85
    Thank you all for your advice. Jrbowers, it sounds like you know exactly what my life is like. I have a daughter who is a toddler and, you are right, I could probably lie down on the floor in her room while she plays near me. Instead of pushing through the pain, smiling and being super-active, I should just give myself a break. I am a good mom and spend a lot of time interacting with her; I shouldn't feel so guilty. I will also try tea and some of the other recommendations. Thank you!
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