Mary, those of us who eat for emotional reasons really have a tough time when life hits us with stresses. I'm like you, and I know it's hard!
When I'm really stressed and having trouble eating right, I take baby steps. I pick one behavior and focus on changing that behavior. For example, don't try to control your eating -- just write everything down. No matter what you eat, write it down. That could be your first baby step. Once you're ready to take another step, then add the water or add five veggies/fruits. When you're ready, take a 20 minute walk every day. Gradually work your way up to adding enough healthy habits that you're completely on program.
I find when I'm overwhelmed, I often have to focus on just one behavior for a while. For me, writing it down is the key behavior that keeps me from spinning out of control long term. Even when I go over points, I make myself write it down.
I think when you focus on one behavior at a time, you build trust in yourself again. You begin to think "I can do this." It's slow, and you have to talk nice to yourself. Pat yourself on the back. NEVER BEAT YOURSELF UP. Just keep moving on.
Finally, I find that exercise is a good stress reliever. If you're not currently exercising, start slow -- just take walks. If your weather is as lousy as ours, go to the mall and walk there. A lot of malls open early or stay open late for walkers. Exercising helps me put things back into perspective. I enjoy working out with aerobic tapes that cheer me up. Normally I loathe Richard Simmons, but he's fun in his aerobic videos. I was in an awful mood this past Monday morning, and I turned on the video and said "OK, Richard, cheer me up here." And he did!
Mary, you can do this. Even though overeating may feel comforting at the moment you're doing it, the results will only stress you out further ultimately. Be good to yourself. Start with baby steps!
--Lauren
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