Coping Mechanisms

Before WLS I would turn to food when I was tired, stressed, angry, frustrated, bored, busy, etc., etc., etc., you get the picture. A few months ofter WLS I realised that food was no longer my 'friend' that I could turn to in times of 'need'. This was such a weird feeling, and took a while to get used to. Since then, I have found that I dont automatically turn to food in these times. Actually the opposite is true, I don't want to eat, as my body is all tensed up and unable to digest food. Have you deliberately put things into place to help you now that food plays a different role in your life. I'm still working on the social aspect of it and alternative 'get togethers'. I found the post about alternative's really helpful a while back.

I turned to food as well...obviously. Now I am starting to have a problem with shopping. I mean...it's natural isn't it. We need new clothes that fit. AND, you realize you can wear cute things so you want to buy more. I have been working with a counselor since before the surgery to help with this. I do a lot of journaling. It's amazing to discover what you have been pushing down with food for so long. It comes up and if you don't deal with it, it is even worse now that the food isn't there. I try to write things down. Forgive people involved...including myself and then I tear up the paper and try to forget it. This has helped with some past issues that have surfaced since surgery. It really is amazing how we have been suffocating our feelings with the fat!! Rachael

I am still having trouble dealing with that,( and I'm a counselor by profession) I don't eat much(because I will dump), but my mind wants to when stressed. I have started earning new hobbies, jewelry making, crocheting....