I don't have this problem but I encourage you to see a dietician and work on an appropriate meal and exercise plan. If somebody holds you accountable on a weekly basis, being responsible is so much easier. And maybe even see a therapist for healthier coping skills.

I do have this problem, although I'm slowly working through it. Food does seem to provide comfort - at least in the short-term. But, as you say, it can cause problems if you keep going.

Don't be hard on yourself. If y.ou haven't had other eating disorders, you might find the book "Overcoming Overeating" helpful. It's a gentle approach to help you when you reach for food when you're not hungry. Do you recognize true hunger, or is it all blurred? This might be a good place to start. And, if you can, find someone to talk to about the feelings and stresses that lead you to eat. You may find a meal plan helpful, but if you've tried a lot of diets, then it may backfire without a lot of support. Some people have found Overeater's Anonymous helpful as well.

For me, I've had other eating disorders, so I see a therapist who's helping me figure this out. I use mindfulness meditation to help me stay calm. And I'm learning about my feelings and other things that might work to process those feelings in a healthier way.

Do keep posting here - there are many of us struggling with similar issues - and some of us are not so young!

Hi Lynn & Karrin; Thank you for your responses. I know what I have to do, and just need to make up my mind. I have tryed different things with regard to my problem. It has been a multitude of things from finances to having Leukemia etc. As soon as I run into any type of stress I reach for the food. I do have a lot of Faith in God, and I just do not know how to Let Go and Let God. My husband is very supportive to me, and he says I have to make up my mind myself. He cannot force me to do this. I have never been thin like all my friends, but the past 10 years or more it has just tumbleweeded into a large weight gain. I will post and let you know how things are going for me. I hope everything is going well for you too.
Susan

I struggle with what your talking about. I have about 30lbs to lose before im at a healthy weight. It may not sound like much but I am struggling with a poor body image because of it. I have lost 10lbs doing weight watchers but like you I eat for every mood. Its a viscous circle because I know if I get in better shape I would more confident but I eat now because of depression and lack of confidence. So I'll say a prayer for you if you say one for me. Take Care.

Hi CME: You said a mouthful when you said prayer. I have had so many problems to make me depressed. I was diagnosed in 1998 with Leukemia, and its a ongoing situation because I have a chronic type of Leukemia where I will have to stay on medication for the rest of my life to keep me in remission, along with financial issues etc. etc. It has caused a weight gain with my Chemo medication that I take daily. I was told I will always carry a extra 40 pounds most likely even if I lose all the weight.
You have to find out what depresses you, and work on it. I know all this, and it is very hard. Weight Watchers is excellent, and its just teaching you the proper way to eat without all these crazy fad diets.
I have been trying to get back on it again, but in the meantime I will pray for you. If we pray for each other the Lord will hear our prayers. I have much more than 30 pounds to lose. Do not get frustrated over 30 0r even 40 pounds. Once you get back on track you can take that off in a reasonable length of time.
Its all in our mind, and we need to get positive in our thoughts as well as actions.
Susan