How do I make the changes?

[Guest guest]

Hi everybody,

First of all, I wanted to thank everybody again for all their congratulations, well wishes, etc.

Secondly, I wanted to get some input from you folks, since you are so good (no, I take that back, you are EXCELLENT) at giving support, which is what I need right now. You know, yesterday I was ELATED when I found out that I was approved for this surgery. And while I am still thrilled about it, I'm finding myself feeling really down today. This is happening quite a bit lately. I guess the problem is that after reading all of these wonderful posts here, I have come to accept the fact that no MATTER WHAT I do to get the weight off of me, I am still going to be the same "me" inside, and I will still be fighting the same demons that I fight now. Everything that everyone has written lately about this subject has been REALLY hitting home for me.

It's making me truly realize that somehow, someway, I have to learn to change the way I think and feel about myself, and that losing weight is not necessarily going to do that. Granted, it WILL make me feel better in that my physical health will improve, and that will greatly affect my mood.

However, I will STILL have all these issues with food, and I'm wondering how I am going to handle them. I've heard so many of you say that you have to find NEW ways to deal with problems instead of "stuffing them down," or "hiding in the food." I COMPLETELY agree with this. But what I want to know is HOW DO YOU DO THAT? Can you please tell me the answer to that question? I know that I have to find different ways of dealing with my pain, problems, etc. but for the life of me, I do not know how. So, what I am asking you all now is how are each of you dealing with this, if it is a problem for you? I heard Joe speak of OA, and I was an on-line member for quite some time, but I let it fall by the wayside. (I know, I know, excuses, excuses). I am in therapy, and have been for some time now, but as I look back, I don't feel like I've made any real progress in this area. So, once again, I am looking to "my group" (it feels really nice to say that ) for support, suggestions, etc. I don't think swinging assorted farm animals will help with this one, though.

Thank you ALL for being here and sharing so honestly.

Pam

Pre-op and pondering.......