I use food to feel safe.

I overeat and have gained weight to feel safe. I don't really understand why extra weight helps me feel safer, I just know it does. I keep little stockpiles of granola bars and herbal tea in my desk drawer, my bag, my bedroom closet. I just need to know it's there in order to feel a sense of security. Otherwise everything would feel like it's spinning out of control.

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I think that's why

Feb 27, 2023 at 4:29pm

it's called food security. The pandemic and rising cost of living has made the unease and anxiety worse. You are certainly not alone and I think it's wise you are stockpiling. Not a problem but an asset.

4 2Rating: +2

Easy

Feb 27, 2023 at 6:09pm

Stress= high cortisol levels= over eating= obesity+ stress=higher cortisol levels= more over eating = more obesity etc etc.

Look it up

2 4Rating: -2

i eat chicken

Feb 27, 2023 at 7:20pm

it helps!

1 3Rating: -2

Herbal Tea

Feb 28, 2023 at 10:52pm

Has no calories…

1 1Rating: 0

It’s just a coping mechanism

Mar 1, 2023 at 8:19pm

We all have them, but some people’s are less healthy than others. I think food is an addiction just like booze or drugs. It’s a source of comfort and distraction from pain, that ultimately winds up causing more pain. Sometimes it’s a way to quite literally insulate ourselves from unwanted attention, especially if you’ve been deeply hurt (such as in a sexual assault situation) in the past. I wish you lots of luck in learning better ways to cope, but in the meantime here’s a hug for you.

5 1Rating: +4

Anonymous

Mar 2, 2023 at 5:23am

What are you hiding from ?
You used the word safe and I'm wondering how food keeps you safe ?
It only traps in a place that you don't want to be get outside and walk in nature. There is still a bit of that left so enjoy it while you can.
World Revolution

1 2Rating: -1

@ I eat chicken

Mar 4, 2023 at 9:34pm

Bahaha
So sick of chicken OMG
Lol

2 1Rating: +1

Survivors

Mar 6, 2023 at 1:06am

...have many different coping strategies. The psychological impact of, for example, sexual assault, varies quite a lot from person to person, and it's important to acknowledge that whatever a survivor is feeling is okay. Eating disorders are one of the mental health issues that survivors may experience (others include depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, etc.).

I'm not trying to imply that OP has experienced sexual assault, just presenting one of the many possible reasons overeating (to use OP's word) might occur.

Some things to consider might be learning some relaxation techniques (such as yoga), cognitive behavioural therapy, and supportive therapy. And if you're not ready to take any of these steps, that's okay. Above all, remember that healing occurs at its own pace. Be gentle with yourself.

2 1Rating: +1

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