Question:
Has anyone gone back to their therapist ...

due to head hunger or food cravings returning. I'm 7 1/2 months post op and I've noticed a return of cravings for things I should not be eating. It's the sugar free version anyway, but even though it is causing me physical problems (that stuff has a laxative effect, if you know what I mean) I can't seem to make myself say no. I'm scared. I do NOT want to fall back in to old patterns ... eating when I'm bored, alone, sad, etc. Do you think returning to my psych. evaluation therapist to discuss whatever is causing this will help? I've read anti-depressents can help. Has anyone been prescribed Prozac or anything to help with these issues? I'm still using my protein powders and getting that in, and the water, but for the last week or sugar free cookies, candy has been a big part of my food consumption. I'm not physically hungry ever, so I know it's not that. I need advice. Yes, I KNOW I need to stop, so don't bother telling me that part. I know, I know. I just want opinions from people who've been where I am now. Thanks.    — KelBurt (posted on December 25, 2002)

December 25, 2002
I would think that seeing a therapist now would be a great idea! I am seeing one pre-op to address the same issues, since I am 99% sure I will still have awful cravings post-op. Prozac and other antidepressants can help, but never did help me. Wellbutrin (which is also prescribed to curb nicotine cravings, known by another name but I can't think of it right now) may help, too. A therapist can give you additional tools to help you with the head hunger. Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]

December 25, 2002
Kelli, That sounds like a wonderful idea if that session went well. I have seen a therapist a varying frequencies for 4 years and we do some work on my "eating issue". Also about the Prozac, sometimes it can cause weight gain. That was the case for me and they switched me to Zoloft about a month before surgery to try to help things. I seem to feel better w/ it too. So if you do go the medicine route mention about the possible weight gain so they will pick one w/ the least chance of making your problems worse. Good luck it sounds like your are a step ahead by realizing what is going on. You will be OK. Good luck and God bless. Leigh
   — Leigh S.

December 25, 2002
I just wanted to add to Inga's post that Welbutrin is the same chemical compound as <b>Zyban</b>, which is used to help curb nicotine cravings.
   — thumpiez

December 26, 2002
Returning to therapy would be your best option at this point in time. Also, the book "The Taming of the Chew" by Denise C. Lamothe was of great help to me! :)
   — britsa4