Can anyone help me with this?
I can eat quite normally on my own, but as soon as I have to eat in front of anyone I get overcome with panic. I sit with the food in my mouth and sometimes have to spit it out.
Going out for dinner is a complete nightmare. I know it's psychological, but I don't know how to stop it.
With Christmas coming I am dreading the office lunch and other dinner parties. People always look at me so strangely as I can never eat more than a few bites, even if I'm starving.
Has anyone had this problem and overcome it?
2006-10-31 19:00:15 · 9 answers · asked by Kate 1 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
I am not an expert but my understanding of these situations from people I have come accross before with some of the strangest of 'phobias' requires facing the problem.
The way they have been taught by Psycologists is to set your self targets of facing the problem. try to get a friend or member of your family to sit with you for a limited amount of time when you eat and then extend that time.
So for the first time you take one mouthful and chew and swallow. The next time two then maybe a few more until you get to a whole meal. Do not try to talk about something else to take your mind of it - you must face the problem.
It is down to you, only you can solve the problem but doing it this way you WILL overcome it. Just dont try to leap before you can walk....................good luck
2006-10-31 19:11:42 · answer #1 · answered by philipscottbrooks 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Does this also happen with fluids? Perhaps you should try drinking in front of other people first and then add nibbles of food with liquid to help wash it down.
You say it's psychological - why not consult a psychologist or counsellor? If you are embarassed, ring a helpline.
Otherwise, you might want to consider:
When it started?
What do you think triggered it?
And try some relaxation exercises when you are with others. Don't avoid going to social events, because avoidance only exacerbates the problem!
Good luck.
2006-11-01 03:08:34 · answer #2 · answered by snoomoo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Until you can overcome this problem, why not eat before the parties and tell the host that you had a snack and you are not very hungry. If you go to a restaurant you can tell them you just want a salad and just pick at it. Or you can order and take home what is left over.
Why not go to the doctor and see if a antidepressant will help ease your fears. You could take one that doesn't require you to take it every day just when a stressful situation comes up.
Go to a therapist when you are able. :)
2006-11-01 04:46:32 · answer #3 · answered by Jan G 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i can understand how you feel. i have a similar problem. eating by myself or with close people that i know i am fine with. when it comes to large groups of people like going out for dinner with work mates or meeting new people i struggle. i am able to put the food in my mouth and swallow but i always have the thought that i will throw up...which on many occassions it has happened. over the past years it has improved. i have slowly placed myself in situations whereby i would have to eat with other people but i took it slowly by eating with a small group, e.g 2 people.
Does this feeling of panic happen when your in a new situation, with large groups, e.t.c?
this problem does seem psychological. there is something at the back of your mind that your thinking of. your thoughts of eating, being in front of other people whilst doing this is clouding your mind. try to focus on having a good time or if its still a problem, it might be best to speak with a close friend who may be able to give you some support.
2006-11-02 14:05:22 · answer #4 · answered by carlita 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I kinda know what you're going through. Although I don't think I have it as bad though.
I have problems with people watching me eat. It feels like they're watching me go to the bathroom or something.
You should look for help. Maybe gradually go out to lunch and stuff. Have lunch with a couple friends.
If it is so bad that you start having panic attacks. See a doctor.
Did something happen to make you uncomfortable?
2006-11-01 03:59:26 · answer #5 · answered by Alexia S 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try two things!
1st: Put three mirrors up when you eat, so that you can watch yourself eating from three different positions. Like other people see you. Once you realise that you look quite all right, you will lose the fear of what other people think of you.
2ND: Meditation. Seems like you are a person who undervalues yourself. Learn Breathing and learn to control your breathing. Let yourself go. Listen to your Body. Do Tai Chi.
Listen: You are not worse than anybody.
Think of the Queen of England after a bad meal with cramps shitting on the toilet!!!
Better???
2006-11-01 03:25:08 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Most women seem to have an unfounded fear of swallowing, especially after you marry them.
They seem willing until they've trapped you then they get all coy.
It'll do you no harm, and I think anyone gets a bit shy performing in public from time to time.
2006-11-01 03:21:32 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
Well you know its psychological, so I think you have to seek help from that direction
2006-11-01 03:04:59 · answer #8 · answered by Starlight 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
wasn't the question i thought it was... get my hopes up by jingos
2006-11-01 03:19:32 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋