Beth, your words described exactly how I feel. I know that I have an eating disorder. When DH and I talk about my health etc. he doesnt seem to understand how I feel. People that dont have this going on just dont understand what it's like. They think that you can just control yourself and that should fix it.
Ruben has a hard time understanding too and he is a very understanding person. He doesn't get why, if I really want to lose weight, I just don't eat that extra helping of dinner or that piece of cake.
Unless you have been through it you really can't make anyone else understand. And it's not viewed the same way other addictions are. Some don't even believe it is an addiction.
No one would ever tell a crack or meth addict or an alcoholic to just stop. Just use your will power and get over it. Of course not. Those are viewed as real addictions that need help, treatment, rehab, whatever.
But when you are an over eater you are just looked at as someone who is lacking will power, maybe even lazy, uncaring, etc. None of which is true.
And I think it's even harder for those who are not heavy, who don't look like they even need to lose much weight and yet they still have those mixed up feelings, issues and thoughts about food that they are dealing with daily.
I can not tell you how many times I have fought in my head with my "idiot self" over getting something to snack on.
I have to say though that when I was keeping my food journal it helped me somehow.
I am sure it did, and it's a good idea. It holds you accountable and sometimes, at least in my case, I forget. I'll think I haven't had much to eat today and then really look back at what I ate, and realize, wow, yes I did!!!
I just want to say that every addiction can be kicked. It just takes a lot of work. Obviously all of us here are dealing with some sort of food addiction or we wouldnt be in the position we are today. Just remember we are all here for each other. Whether we have a success or a failure.
I don't know if it can be "kicked" as much as controlled. I know that an alcoholic is always an alcoholic, albeit a recovering one. I think that's how it is with food too. Since we are around it so much and it plays such a huge part of every person's life, you always have to be aware and careful.
Think of people you've seen who've had that gastric bypass surgery and that is a big deal. It's a pretty serious surgery and the after effects are pretty miserable. But they go through all that, and lose the weight and then months or years later, are back gaining the weight.
It's because the addiction is still there and if you don't recognize that then you are asking for trouble.
I have heard it said that if you start helping others you tend to forget about your own problems. I'm ready to do that. It'll be good to get the focus off of me for awhile. I dont mind being called if someone is going to go on a binge. I'm usually up pretty late, even if I am not online.
That's very nice of you to offer. Like a sponsor. LOL It does help to have someone to call and just say okay those cookies, or that enchilada is really calling my name right now. And know that person is going to understand and not just tell you to get over it.
It's good to see some activity over here again.
Later!
They are yummy!
