STRESS

I need some encouraging words/support/prayers right now. My husband lost his job of 24 years on August 12. I worked part-time & my work is trying to give me full-time hours. My problem is I not eating. When I was stressed food was my friend. I've been losing wt. I'm down to 138 lbs. I've always ate every 3 hours no matter what, but I just don't want to eat.

Any thoughts? I swift kick in the pants to remind me I need to be careful with my health?

Thanks for reading.

It sounds like you are kicking your own self in the pants, so I'll pass on that activity :-)

I'm so sorry about your situation and will send up some prayers for you and your husband.  You must, though, take care of yourself.  If you ruin your health by not eating, or not eating properly, you will not be able to do YOUR job, and I'm sure that job is important for the two of you now. 

If you can't manage anything else in the short-term, at least drink a few protein shakes a day ... or eat some yogurt or have some soup.  You must get some calories in your body, preferably protein.  And make sure you are drinking plenty of water or tea; you must also stay hydrated.

Please take care of yourself, and let us know how things are going.  We care :-)
--Dorothy

Dorothy,

I'm able to get my liquids in. I'm going to start drinking a protein shake every morning before breakfast. ( I did this am) I seem to tolerate liquids better, I have made all my meals for the day and made the commitment to eat them all or have to have another protein shake before bed. One shake is enough!

Thank you so much for responding!

So sorry you are having a rough time. These stressful times test our sleeves and more importantly our new eating habits. Consider it good that you are not stress eating. Many normal people lose appetite in times of stress. But having said that, you don't need to lose too much weight. When I had trouble stopping (now not a problem) I resorted to eating a blob of peanut butter on a spoon each night for a few extra calories. Nuts and cheese are small and pretty high calorie. My dietician said go to 1% or higher milk to get a few more calories in. The main thing is don't start eating junk to add calories as its just no good for you long term. Try to add healthy calories in the form of fats like nuts. And don't neglect your supplements.

My brother had your same surgeon. He is doing well. Hope you will get your job issues worked out soon.   Diane

Diane,

Thanks for responding! I never thought I would shun food. In the past food was my comfort. Just the thought of food (good or bad) doesn't have any attaction. I'm not a big fan of protein shakes, BUT if I am relectant to eat, I think maybe that is what I need to do.

On another note: How is your brother doing?

Thank you SO much!

Hi Lora!  So sorry to hear this!  Where did he work?  That would really stress me out too.  I would probably eat though because I've already found out that if I'm stressed, I still turn to food. 

I guess about all I have to offer is support and to do what some others suggest.  Eat something every 3 hours whether you feel like it or not.  Force yourself.  Make it a protein so you don't lose muscle mass.  Maybe even just turn to protein drinks so that  you stay hydrated and get plenty of protein. 

I'll be in Omaha next Monday for my arm surgery.  I'm kind of nervous, but trying my best to not think about it!  I was told I will have to come for post-op visits every week for a few weeks.  If I'm feeling up to it, maybe the 3 of us can meet again to catch up and you can check out my new, but at that time, very ugly arm scars!  (I'll buy)

Take care of yourself.

Wanda,

My husband was a tile installer. He worked for the same company for 24 years. They wanted him to become a subcontractor. No benefits.  With the economy being the way it is...well you know the story.

I appreciate your support.

Who did you decide to go with for your surgery? You will do great! I would love to see you again.

I will be thinking of you. Take care & best wishes.

Thank you for responding,

Dr. Montag at Surgical Images

Good Choice . She is awesome.

 I'll send hugs but don't believe in pants-kicking. at least, it never is helpful to me.

whatever you can do that's healthy and helps you relax, do it. listen to music, birdsong, Bob Hope movies,  walk, bubblebath, pet your dog. I don't know what blows your hair back but go do it.  I wish you the best.