I'm just going to jump in...

[Defrazld]

My story ...
I am an alcoholic/prescription drug addict in recovery. I quit pills, whiskey and nicotine within a few years of each other.

Since I didn't have that many great coping skills to begin with I started eating. I didn't even notice that I was getting so fat until I was walking one day and my thighs were chaffing... I was mortified. I felt so bad about it that I ate more. My mom died 11 months after my dad died and there were other things going on as well.

Every time I was stressed, sad, bored - you name it, I would eat. I made an art out of eating, nibbling the tiny ridges off the reesees candy, but then I would just - eat. So much for the art form. I would eat at the drive in before coming home just so I could cover up my eating.

I'm a Certified Drug/Alcohol addictions specialist and I have a good foundation in my drug/alcohol recovery, however when I work with clients I feel like such a hypocrit.

I can't tell you what you already don't know. The shame and incredible "distance" my weight put between me and other people was heavy. I wouldn't go places because of the mirrors. I did Atkins a few years ago with my husband and we did well - even had fun with the ketosis stix. Then a crisis hit with my daughter and one more time I turned to food. Eventually my husband followed suit.

The fact that I was able to put smoking, drinking and pills behind me (one day at a time & LOTS of support) began to not matter. Food has enslaved me, like any good addiction does.

I'm a wife, mom, friend and counselor and a good person. The issues that are beneath the weight are going to float to the surface as I lose weight.

It's not about the eating for me - the food is just the symptom of an underlying problem... the problems I didn't deal with while I was clean/sober/nicotine free.
I've never been so darned serious about my weight and health before.

This addiction really has me in its grips but I see all the posts, the support and the stories and pics. I am inspired - a LOT!!!

[bradybunch]

If you beat all those odds you will whip your weight issue for sure. Sounds like you are one very strong and determined woman. I wish you the best and if I can help you with anything give me a yell, brady

I feel for you losing your Mom and Dad so close together.

[Defrazld]

Thank you Brady. That means a lot!

[Lynsey]

Weclome Defrazld, your off to a good start, this is a great place for guidance and support.

[godsbeloved79]

You can do it !