I'm an emotional eater. Do you have any ideas for coping skills/alternative behavior?

Answer 1

I am too and I have started telling myself no. It is hard as H E double hockey sticks. I slip, but instead of saying oh I messed up, I give up, I say oh well, and keep trying. I changed where I eat too. No more eating by the computer, no eating on the couch while watching TV. Now, I only eat at the dinner table and even if it is a snack, I put down a place mat, my good china, nice silver, and a pretty glass. While I am doing this, it gives me time to think ' am I really hungry?' I also put signs up near places I often am, car, computer, garden, phone, etc. Signs that say you are doing great, remember to eat for fuel not for comfort. Food can be health or death, (my name), it is up to you.

I also reward myself with things that are not edible. Rewarding yourself with a meal or food treat will never work when food is the problem. You have to reward yourself weekly with something. I rent a movie, go to the mall and buy a blouse (on sale of course), etc.

Also, keep a food diary. Buy the prettiest diary or journal you can find and a cute pen and keep track of everything that goes in your mouth. Even one cracker. When you start reading it after the first week, you will be surprised, shocked, a little shamed. It helps get you on the right track. Also, write how you felt when you ate what you ate.

Answer 2

You need to give more information on what your illness is exactly. All you say is emotional eater. This doesn't tell if you eat because you are depressed over your weight or if your depressed over other things. So, the only thing I can say is the alternative would be when you get emotional instead of eating take a walk, go for a drive, read a book, or get on here and answer someone elses questions.

Answer 3

You probably turn to food because it makes you feel better. So, you have to find something to replace food that also makes you feel good. Think of positive things you enjoy doing, like exercising, calling or writing a friend or family member, reading, etc. Then try to substitute that new behavior for eating. Or you could make a new habit, like if you're feeling down you make a big cup of herbal tea, watch a good show, or something else to spoil yourself. That way you have something special you can turn to. Good luck!

Answer 4

Go to Overeaters Anonymous.

Answer 5

get a punching bag to hit the crap out if you angry , if you sad take your dog for a walk and with it. it works for me it takes your mind of the problem until you can think about it more clearly.

Answer 6

try seeing a professional counselor/therapist who can teach you correctly as opposed to people on the net who really don't know what they are talking about. it doesn't mean you are psycho either. it is common.

Answer 7

bulemia. you never said good ideas.