[Diana the Hun]

I'm going through some pretty low moods these days. I'm fairly sure I'm depressed and am looking into psychiatric help. I am also very unsatisfied with my weight. I was interested in hearing from people about how much trouble they've had/are having losing weight while battling anxiety/depression. I start out motivated but lose it within a few days, only to start up the cycle again, and it's exacerbating my stress because I want so much to lose this weight!! Then there's all that guilt. Does anyone have any strategies to stick with dieting despite the low moods? Thanks!

[HeatherAngel]

Hi Diana -
The biggest battle-winner for me is reminding myself - KINDLY - that 'one screw up' has NOT ruined my whole plan. There have been days where I have wanted to eat WAAAAY off plan, and sometimes I do eat off plan (just not massively - you know, one piece of cake, say, does not mean I might as well eat the rest of it!) but then I carry on. Yes, I feel like crap, like a failure, like I'm not good at anything, but why 'start again'? THAT'S the hard part - so instead of starting and re-starting, I just keep on going.

Because it is worth it - I am worth it. That's hard for me to type, and harder to believe, but I'm fakin' it, baby!

Hang in there - you CAN do this!!

Heather

[Lifeguard]

For me, personally, although I tried, weightloss just was not really possible while my depressive symptoms were present. The depression just so overtakes my life that taking care of that has to be my main focus during those times. That is part of why now, while I'm feeling good, I am putting everything into exercise & weightloss - hopefully that'll keep the depression at bay. Good luck.

[ayaussy]

I have anxiety/depression and an autoimmune disease and both can cause fatigue. I've found I have an uncontrollable urge for carbs when this fatigue hits. I truly think my body's response to the fatigue is to load up on what it thinks is energy - simple carbs. It doesn't do squat for the fatigue but you know those calories add up, so I think it's really tough to control at those times. Talk to your counselor about it and work on a strategy. Medication has helped me quite a bit.

[Mermom]

I also have anxiety/depression with an autoimmune disease. I too have that uncontrollable urge for carbs when the fatigue hits. I thought I was the only one!
Medication really does help for the anxiety/depression. I can't imagine ever living again without it.

[Diana the Hun]

Wow, thank you all so much for your replies! It's sad that you can all relate to me, I wouldn't wish this feeling on anyone, but I'm glad you all understand how I'm feeling. I also want to thank you for NOT saying "snap out of it", "you have to be stronger and push through it", and "there are so many people worse off than you". I'm quite surprised at how everyone around me seems to think themselves a mental health expert, down to lecturing me on the evils of anti-depressants!
I think my priority right now will be getting some professional help and workng on just feeling good when I wake up in the morning. When I get my strength back, so to speak, I'll tackle the weight issue. I want to wish you all much happiness. Thanks!

[bassetbabe]

I have been battling weight issues ever since I started having panic attacks last December (was also diagnosed with GAD and a couple other things). I wasn't necessarily depressed at the time, but I've been working with a psych for 9 months now to find a med that somewhat helps without making me feel like a zombie. Totally depressed about it and then some. There are some other problems that the anxiety has caused that in turn lead to me being depressed. I've basically gotten to the point of who cares anymore. And just believing its not worth even trying. Of course the meds with the weight gain side effects (combined with my absolute LOVE of food don't help).

Sorry this really isn't helpful in anyway, just want to let you know that I can totally relate. I do agree that getting help with the depression first is a big and important step. Once you feel better in general, you will feel better and more empowered to reach your own goals. Good luck.