Hi all - I've been reading your posts here for a couple of days and decided to chime in and introduce myself. My name is Angie, I'm 44, have been happily married for 25 years and have 2 children and 3 grandchildren and cat and dog children.... I was very thin until I was 34 years old and I quit smoking and was also dealing with a very serious depression. I don't know which it was or if it was a combo of both but here I am about 85 lbs. heavier in 10 years. I have given a few half-hearted attempts over the years to get myself in control but end up bingeing on sweets in a very short time. Anxiety or anger usually set me off. Talk about feeling hopeless, I'll do what I'm supposed to for a few days and then tell myself I'm going to fail anyway and eat a Snickers. I have tried WW and Atkins and lost easily with both but stuck with niether. I feel so horrible about myself, at this point it is turning into more of a self loathing. It's actually hard to look in a mirror and photos are out of the question. (ageing has a lot to do with it also) anyway....enough whining!

I've been reading some of the posts and have gotten a few ideas on how to come up with a plan. I need a rock solid plan and some accountability. The core plan from WW sounds promising and I'll check that out more thoroughly. All tips are GREATLY appreciated.

Hey Angie! :wel3fcL

You are NOT alone, and we've got plenty of tips for you.

First, check out the 40-somethings...a great support group for folks in your age range.

We also have a "Depression and Weight Loss" area that'd be a great fit...many of us struggle with the same issues of controlling food when our moods aren't doing so well.

We also have a forum for those on the WW Core eating plan, so if you do go that route, check it out also.

Look around, settle in, and soak up the collective wisdom of 3FC. Can't wait to get to know you better soon!

Angie!

Welcome Angie!

Quitting smoking and battling depression absolutely can cause weight gain. I am somewhat in the same boat as you. 2 years ago I had completely got off about 60 lbs and maintained it for those 2 years. Within the last year and a half I have put on about 75 lbs and have been battling depression (I'm not brave enough to stop smoking right now so you're doing better than me!) Just know that the people here on this board can be a major support system and if you ever need encouragement we'll all be here!