How do I get out of bed and eat again?

[livelifelarge24]

I know it seems simple, but for me its not. I just went through a lot of MAJOR stresses and changes and at this time I'm not dealing with it well. I had a stalker, which resulted in me getting a 3-year restraining order against him in what the judge called the worst case of harassment he'd ever seen in his court. Even the restraining order didn't make me feel better however, knowing that I was living a mere half mile from the stalker. This caused me to give up my apartment (which I had been living in alone) and put everything I own into storage. I am currently staying wtih my mom while I get my life back together. I have to commute two hours a day to my very busy work. One week later, my current boyfriend and I split and he doesn't want to work it out.

I KNOW the reality of the situation. I am a very bright, smart, successful and fairly attractive 29 year old woman. I own and run my own business and have friends that adore me. I know that what I went through is not my fault. I've been in counseling and I've been to various doctors almost monthly for the different health problems this has caused me. I know that I need to get out and enjoy the community I'm living in now and make the best of it - meet new people, maybe accept some dates I've been offered, join some social activities. I know I need to eat better and get back on my bike.

What I don't know is HOW. I have lost 14 pounds and counting because I have such a hard time eating when I'm upset. I've currently been in bed since yesterday and have not eaten anything in over 24 hours. I'm weak, shaky and I feel sick. I know that I have a head cold right now and severe allergies but I've convinced myself that I'm deathly ill and that I'm going to lose my mind. Despite the fact that I KNEW my boyfriend and I weren't right for each other, now I feel alone and scared and can't stop trying to see if he wants to work it out.

How do I get out of this slump? I want to meet new people, and I want to consider closing my business in the old town so that I can be completely away from the crazy guy. I want to get out and enjoy life but I can't even get out of bed or get food down me right now. I have terrible panic attacks when I even think about leaving or eating something. I'm afraid I'm going to cause myself some kind of permanent physical damage or make myself go literally crazy. Please help.

[nursegirl6572]

I couldn't possible add much more to lydia's post, other than if we can be of any help getting you through this...you got it.  You already know your strengths and what makes you a wonderful person deserving of great things.  You just need help re-building that confidence so that YOU really believe it.  You are a VICTIM and none of this is your fault.  You know the saying that sometimes bad things happen to bring about the positive change that was necessary?  Maybe that is true, at least in the case with your BF.  Lean on those who love you and care about you....and again, we're here for you as well.

Hang in there.....it will get better, it's just going to take some time!

[RubyWitch]

I didn't see this post........just the other one about your three day fast. This is why it's good to give us all the infromation you can in one post. Our responses would have been somewhat the same, but with this post, we have a much larger picture of what, and far more importantly, WHY you've been going through the stress you spoke of.
I am very sorry this terrible and frightening ordeal is happening to you. It sounds like you've done pretty much everything you can, but the toll this person is taking on your health must be addressed.
I stand by my urging for you to see a doctor since this IS affecting your health and I STRONGLY urge you get into therapy. I'm sure that sounds lopsided since your stalker is the one who is psychologically impaired, but no one can live in constant fear without dire consequences and I believe you are beginning to suffer those consquences now. This person has stolen enough of your life. There are psychiatrists out there specifically trained to deal with crime victims and don't think for one minute you aren't. You may also want to look into a self-defense class which would help to rebuild your self-confidence. I have, thank God, never been in your position, but I don't think there's a single woman on this forum who hasn't, at some time in our lives, felt threatened. It's a terrifying feeling and I can't imagine living with it on a daily basis.
I find that it's difficult for me to tell you to just get out there and get back into life when I think if this was happening to ME, I'd just find a place to hide and stay there. I admire your courage for the steps you have already taken.
I hope the police have given you information on what you can do and if not, I would ask.
I hope this situation will soon be resolved.
Please let us know how you're doing and write anytime you need to talk.
Warmly
Greenlydia