I'm a compulsive eater and smoker. What do I do?

Question

Everyday I wake up thinking about food. When I'm going to get it? What am I going to eat? Is it going to be rewarding? This has been going on for years and is seriously taking a toll on my body. I want to quit smoking so bad but I can't Nothing I try helps. I don't want to go on medication, I just wonder if there is something wrong with me. If I'm not eating I'm thinking about my next cigarette. If I'm not smoking I'm thinking about my next meal. It gets so frustrating! I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder when I was young and have been treated for it ever since. A few years ago I was also diagnosed with OCD "tendencies" whatever that means. Could these "tendencies" be whats causing this persistent thought pattern?

Answer 1

s***w meds.  

I used to obsess over food in the exact same way as you.  Once I stopped worrying about binge eating and eating in general, I was able to overcome my obsession.  Just listen to your body.  I allowed myself to eat as much as I wanted and stopped making such a big deal over it.  As a result, I lost my excessive interest in eating and could move on with my daily life.  

As for smoking, do the same - listen to your body.  Of course, you may have cravings.  These, however, come from the mind.  Your body has no need for them.  Become aware of your thoughts as a craving strikes.  Become aware that it is only that - just a fleeting thought.  You could try picking up a hobby (juggling, knitting, reading, etc) to keep yourself occupied.

Coincidentally, I have OCD as well.  Don't let a label take over your mindset and run your life.  You are not that.  You are you.  Do what makes you feel good and avoid unsatisfying things.  You are in complete control of everything you do.  Never see yourself as a victim of anything.

Whatever ails you, recognize it for what it is and then take action.

I recommend reading "A New Earth" by Eckhart Tolle to help with recognizing thought patterns.  A wonderful thing he says in the book is that "Whatever you fight, you strengthen, and what you resist persists."  Keep that in mind.  You don't need to battle it out.  The solution will come naturally.

Answer 2

I would say the OCD tendencies have a lot to do with it; go to the doctor and be open about considering meds! Don't be scared, they may help you level everything out and get where you need to be :) Take care!

Answer 3

You eat and smoke.