I eat to comfort myself. Work is a daily source of stress and anxiety. When I am going through depression, the feelings of anxiety intensify and I often feel alienated from those I work with. (I am a high school teacher) I often have treats in my work bag and desk and pull them out like familiar friends. They calm me for a little while and help me to focus. I know that sounds crazy, but it is true. During the summer break by stress level decreases significantly and it is easier for me to step back and get some perspective and control over my junkfood intake, but once the school year starts and the stress levels begin to ramp up, it gets to a point where something has to give.

I had gastric band surgery in the summer of 2010 and it was a successful experience until a couple of months into the school year. In my mind when I think about the loss of food as a source of comfort, I see this huge void and I am afraid of what I might do to fill it. I know from experience what I am capable of doing to fill voids in my life- shopping, drinking, internet dating sites. I am remarried and I don't want to jeopardize my relationship with my husband.

When it comes right down to it, food serves as a barrier or buffer between me and my pain, anxiety and fear. This was a habit of coping during a very long and difficult marriage to my first husband that has been generalized to other areas of stress in my life.

Jerry Kennard, Health Pro

1/ 4/13 1:25pm

Thank you. Your comment has really helped to bring my post to life by illustrating your own situation. I love the so-called comfort foods too and no pot of ice cream is safe within 50 yards of me, especially if it is laced with caramel! I don't think I've met anyone who can't point to foods that have some emotional component attached.