Hi everyone,

About a year and half ago, I lost 20 lbs. My low weight was 149 lbs. I was so proud the day I stood on the scale and saw a number below 150! The fact that my size 10 jeans were getting loose made me feel so good about myself.

I managed to maintain for nearly a year, but over the past few months I've been gaining. I'm up 10 lbs. And I'm freaking out, because I can't seem to get myself to do what I know works for me - cut out sugar and start counting calories. I have been exercising, but I just can't seem to get my eating under control.

Things have been a little rough for me lately, as I'm sure they have been for many people. I'm unemployed. I can't pay my bills. I'm home most of the day, bored, and mildly depressed. Food has always been an emotional crutch for me, and I find myself leaning heavily on that crutch right now.

I hate that I'm gaining. I want it to stop. Please help - any tips on how to cope with stress/boredom/depression without food would be much appreciated.

Thanks, and I'll see you around the forum!

Caly

Do You like to read? Go to a library. Maybe, find some new hobbies. How about volunteer work? I haven't been working much either. I struggle with overeating sweets too. I'm planning on making a fresh start and get back on my calorie counting. I've gained back some weight too. We Can Do It!

Go for walks? Get a cheap used bike and bike ride? How about learn to crochet and sell your pieces for money?

I'm a librarian, when I'm employed, so I second the library suggestion -- I find reading diet books helps keep me focused whether or not I follow anything in the book.

Growing a little of my own food helps me, too. I guess it's too late to plant anything outside where you are, but you might look into growing sprouts or microgreens or a pot of herbs.

Basically, I'm treating "healthy lifestyle" as my job. Cooking from scratch, gardening, exercising, planning, reading, researching. All of that goes into it.

I'm unemployed right now too and I find that walking/hiking is the best thing for me to do when I'm stressed. I really enjoy being outside, but I also love listening to music on my Ipod and walking on the treadmill because I can zone out and just enjoy the music. I know how hard it can be to focus on eating well when you don't feel like your in control of anything else. Good luck with your job hunt and your weight loss!

Hi Caly and welcome to 3FC!

Good luck with your goals

Hugs
Michelle