depression and food

[huckleberry411]

I have clinical depression and can't stop eating..........it is exacerbating the depression issues.

What do I do?  I am just so miserable and don't know where to turn?

[VLK1982]

Hi there, just wanted to let you know that you're not alone.  I deal with the same emotional eating related to depression.  I try to control it, but obviously it has made me overweight and that affects my self-esteem.  I understand what you're going through!

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

the advice I have for you is the same I frequently give...this kind of eating is an obsesive-compulsive process, and part of the defenses that go with depression.  You can learn about it, and master it, and open up your mind, if you use the twelve week program I have developed for just this purpose at www.shrinkyourself.com

[Jaquta]

Are you on medication/ in therapy??

Perhaps looking at the underlying issues will help with the over-eating.

Sometimes cravings are stimulated by a lack of certain neurotransmitters.
Some foods contain precursors for serotonin.

Have you tried establishing structure and working towards achieving small goals each day?  That helps give us a sense of mastery and achievement and helps us feel better about ourselves.

I understand how dejected low mood and over-eating (and weight gain) can leave you feeling.

What would I do?
I would try and get some exercise in and try and eat healthily.
I would abstain from buying junk food.
I would try and find an alternative coping mechanism.  Preferably something you enjoy or used to enjoy.
I would talk to a therapist.  This can be hard to engage in when you're depressed but it can be beneficial.
Do you have friends or family you can call on at this time for additional support?

The doctor here is well versed in depression and emotional eating so I expect he will be able to offer constructive advice and suggestions.

J