Emotional Eating

My dad passed away a few years ago, and that was hard...not to mention watching him battle multiple myeloma to boot.

I’ve tried everything from crocheting, knitting, yadda yadda.....I do take lexapro, and I do see a therapist. Those are both HUGE helps with the emotional part if it all. I wouldn’t have thought to see a therapist, but at one time, I was considering getting the lap band done, and that was one of the hoops I needed to jump through to get it done. I still haven’t gotten it done, but I do still see the therapist.

Oops- I meant to say: "steer clear of any drugs" if you can help it. Pharmaceuticals are over-prescribed in our culture (and often have nasty side-effects). We can do this!

Life long emotional eater here - I am especially fond of candy and sweet treats.

I've successfully curb this habit though, but it took five years of dedication and self evaluation. First of all it is important to become acquainted with your body to be able to distinguish between actual hunger and cravings. When feeling the need to eat, ask yourself: do you really need this?

Secondly substitute unhealthy foods with healthier food, which is still tasty. It doesn't help you bombard yourself with food you don't like eating because this is not sustainable and you'll fall back to bad habits. In fact, never eat something you don't want to eat, it's wasted calories and reduced enjoyment in your life. There will be healthy, tasty alternatives.

Thirdly, find a distraction. I used to eat when bored as well, so when I see the signs of craving for unnecessary food arises I do something that I enjoy, whether it be walking, playing video games, spending time with my dogs, etc. Keep yourself occupied and distracted.

My final tip would be to address the emotions. I suffer from depression since I was seven years old (family curse really) and anxiety has been a part of my identity ever since I had one. So I began to deal with it: I worked on the anxiety and the depression is better ever since I've set goals for myself. Everyone is different and has unique circumstances they must face: but it is important to address it and understand food is fuel and not a comfort.

I am really sorry for your loss and I hope you'll soon rejoice in the memories you have of your mom. This is really a difficult time so don't be so hard on yourself: One day at a time is how we should live. If we make a mistake we can always work on it the next day. It took me years to get control over my eating, years filled with slip ups. But if your aim is realistic you can manage as well. We believe in you.