Are you using food to deal with the current stress we are all under due to the turmoil in the economy? Do you find yourself mindlessly consuming foods you don't normally eat in an effort to feel good? Would you say that you have gained weight as a result of economy stress eating?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you are not alone. As an eating disorder therapist, I sit in the trenches, everyday, with people who use food to cope with life. There is a food for all our ills. There is: ice cream or chocolate (for a loss), French fries (for a fight with the boss), and chips (for a fight with our mate). Food provides temporary relief from the stress of daily living. The more stress, the more food. Economy stress food tends to run more toward the salty/crunchy, than the sweet/creamy, but it is very individual.
During times of severe stress, people turn to their vices for relief. Peter Jennings went back to smoking cigarettes after 9/11. Alcoholics go back to drinking and compulsive over-eaters turn to food.
If you are currently using food to cope; admit that to yourself. Awareness is the first step in changing any behavior. Once you admit that you are not eating those Twinkies to meet your nutritional needs, you are on the way to new behavior.
We all need coping mechanisms right now. With the ups and downs of the daily financial news, it is a roller coaster of good and bad. We are all getting seasick.
So here are some steps to take to work past using food to deal with life:
1) Admit that you are indeed eating for comfort and that you need a little extra comfort right now.
2) Make a list of what brings you comfort right now. Make sure there are things other than food on it and do those things more.
3) Notice how others around you handle stress and emulate those you admire.
4) Realize that this too shall pass and that it is an opportunity to practice new coping behaviors during a time when it really counts.
5) If you need to use food, try and use lower calorie options, so the consequences aren't as great.
That's it for now. Good luck and let me know how you're doing.
If you'd like to participate in the research for Irene's new book about the process of weight loss, please visit http://www.eatingdisordertherapist.comand take the survey.