stress - how do you cope now that you can't turn to food?

I know that I am an emotional eater - especially when I'm stressed out. Things were going good with my little family lately and of course now life has exploded a week post-op. My son has recently been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. For those of you who may not be aware of what that is, it is an Autism Spectrum Disorder. It was a long road to that diagnosis. Out of control behavior along with social, communication and cognitive problems briefly summarize Evan. Last year he was enrolled in Montessori school and ultimately asked not to return due to his extremely aggressive behavior. This year he has been enrolled in East Carolina University's Child Development Lab and as of today has been asked not to return until an effective plan is in place to control his aggressiveness. I don't understand. One day everything clicks with him and the next day nothing clicks. We have seen multiple doctors, have multiple opinions on what to do and what not to do, and have prayed many prayers. I even started him on medication in hopes of having an answer. Nothing has really helped. As two full-time working parents, him not being in preschool is a big problem. So I'm a little stressed right now. Yes I'm home on medical leave, but it is extremely difficult to handle him by myself. I'm not sure what to do next - but my stress level is going to have to go down. It's a good thing I can't have anything but liquids for another week. Hopefully things will calm down a little before I can eat again. I just thought I'd ask how you all cope with stress now. I'm open to any and all suggestions! :)

Is there an online support group for others who have his condition? I know how helpful this support group is for me and just the knowledge that you're not alone in something is comfort in itself. Is there a home daycare situation available to you? Sometimes smaller groups are especially helpful. I too am an emotional eater. The internet has become my escape - on here, planning dream vacations, shopping for anything and everything you name it. I"ve replaced eating with "quality & quantity" of ME time.  Lots of luck and let us know how things are going.  - Iris

Becky, I can't imagine the stress you are under right now, but I'll say a prayer for you.  Also, as far as alternatives to food...I haven't had the surgery, yet, but it helps me to write in a journal or post online or go for a walk or drive.  I also like to do crosswords and sudoku puzzles.  They seem to take my mind off things.  I know some of these may not be feasible, but maybe you can find one that will help.  I hope things calm down soon.   Amanda

I'm so sorry to hear about your stress issues.  I also can't imagine what you are going through.  I do have a cousin that has an autistic child and she is 8 year younger than me and tells me all the time how hard it is.  I will say a prayer for you and will keep you in my thoughts.  (((you)))) I have been doing a journal.  I actually write in a book.  It takes my mind away from my daily stresses and it gives me time to reflect on ME!   Best of luck to you and I'm thinking of you!

Connie

((((Becky)))),

I'm so sorry to hear of your struggles. It's so hard when one of our children is hurting and we feel powerless to help them. Beyond that, of course you have to deal the practical realities that these issues bring to bear. I have to say that while in the short term, the surgery will KEEP you from stress eating, eventually, it will rear it's ugly head again. I know ... I've been dealing with it myself ... that's one of the reasons that I bought the "Beck Diet Solution" book and workbook ... Because I recognized that I am still the same old me, with the same old "coping mechanisms" ... the book is helping me to recognize the dangerous behaviors and giving me some tools to deal with them.

I'm not sure if you belong to one of online support groups for parent's of Asperger's Syndrome children, such as OASIS or ASSGO, but I think I would find that very helpful. I also have tried replacing the eating to comfort myself activities with some others that are less likely to hurt me in the long run. Posting here, has been a great help.

I wish that there was an easy answer, I will keep you in my thoughts.

Warmly,

Barb

Hey Becky Boo - I'm sorry you're under so much stress...especially while you're healing. I'm going to be praying for you and your family. I hope you find the peace you need & deserve. Love you friend!! Mare xoxo   

For me working out is the best stress relief... I imagine the stress leaving my body via the sweat I produce and I feel much better after words. If I am extra stressed I will push myself harder than usual - I put all my focus into the workout and achieving whatever goal I set that day - I also jam out to some of my favorite songs.  Yoga is also another great stress relief for me... it allows me to focus on myself and relax!

I don't have any real suggestions on either, Becky, but I wanted to let you know I'll pray for an answer to the situation... (((((((((((((((((Becky)))))))))))))))))  Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

I truly understand. I have just flat out had to start seeing someone. I knew I might have a couple of things to deal with, but rather than a small stream, it has been like a FLOOD gate opened up a raging river.
I have been a mess and have never felt anger like I have lately and haven't been able to stop crying.

When I'm not talking to the therapist, I'm reading to escape or exercising to extend all that pent up emotion.

(((Becky))) Hugs and prayers to you and your family. Kelly :)