Emotional Eating/Drinking (X Post)

Wow.  This is a test.  This is only a test.  This weekend, I received very bad news regarding my fathers health.  He has been diagnosed with lung cancer.  I don’t know if it’s spread (will know more tomorrow).  My first inclination was to eat something – anything – or grab the nearest bottle of wine and drown my sorrows.  Food really protects you – it shields you from dealing with things.  Hide behind chocolate cake or a bottle of Merlot.  Right now I’d take that instead of dealing, head on, with these RAW emotions.  I think I’ve experienced 100 X’s stronger emotions since surgery – because I’m forced to.  Easy way out?  I’d double dog dare anyone who hasn’t had this surgery to deal w/ these emotions – and then tell me this is the ‘easy way out’.  UGH.

 

So, what to do?  I should go to the gym, I know this.  However, I am not yet a member.. so maybe I’ll get my butt downstairs and on the treadmill.  My son has a ‘power ranger bash bag’ – which has gotten quite a workout – why hitting something makes me feel better is beyond me.  I’m not a violent person. 

 

I need to pull myself together for my kids.  And for my job.  And for my sanity in general.  It was never this difficult when I could prescribe myself some chocolate indulgence!

 

So, how do you deal with emotions now that food and alcohol are not options?

I am so sorry to hear about your father's  health. You are strong, you will be able to handle this. Have a bottle of water, exercise, go for a walk, do something with the kids, work on a project.  We all deal with emotions, if you need to, see a professional. hugs 

THanks Lisa.  I needed to schedule my post-op Psych eval anyway - so I guess now would be a good time (the poor psych! - she doesn't know what's coming!). Denise

You've just proven you know what to do!  You came to the board and looked for help.  You are an incredible person!  You are proving that through all that you have done to get control of your life back.  I salute you.  We are on this earth to learn how to deal with life.  You are dealing with life.  It ain't easy, but who ever said easy was our way???  Cry, laugh, love and go hit the bag!  But abusing your body with booze and food is not an option!  It never worked before, and you already know that.  Why dwell on it???  My prayers are with you and your father.  Remember, you are incredibly strong, you've proven that.  Just keep remembering it!  Paul

Thanks Paul!  You are so sweet!  Sometimes, I don't feel so strong... or I wish I didn't have to be strong, you know? Denise

Come here ten times a day if necessary! Journal, exercise, talk to friends, check out a cancer family support group in your area. Another option would be OA which can help you deal with your feelings and food.

PM me if you would like to.

Connie 

Thanks Connie.  I am going to definitely check out a cancer family support group - b/c I'm at a loss with what to do for dad.  It' is also hard b/c he's in Miami, and I'm well.. here. This board is the best.

Denise, I am so sorry about the news on your father.  You are all in my thoughts and prayers!

I would get on that treadmill, put on some music and just walk.  Hang in there sweetie.  Vent away here too!

Try this-it's not just for alcoholics-it has brought me through MANY crises-I have chanted it like a mantra--"God grant me Serenity- to accept the things I can not change, Courage- to change the things I can and Wisdom- to know the difference."  Good luck and God Bless-Janet K

I'm so sorry to hear about your father Denise, but I am really proud of you that you are thinking your choices thru!  I'm sure it would have been automatic as to what you would have done before WLS.  So I say you have passed the test, I only wish your test would have been under better cir****tances.  You know you have a ton of support with everyone here on the board, so use us as much as you need to. Hugs Pam