New to Abstinence

[reesey]

A friend of mine turned me on to FAA - so I am here to gather information. I don't necessarily identify with the word addict but I do have issues with emotional eating, eating too much, drinking too much, depression, weight issues, etc. While I was reading some of the posts from other members, I could relate to their stories; thus, here I am. I've always known my depression was something I suffered with from an early age, as early as four or five, but I never would draw a comparison with food and mental health. Since October, I've basically cut out sugar/flour and lost 15 pounds - although, I still had the occasionally glass of wine, mangoes, bananas, etc. After reading a lot of the information on FAA, I see the adverse affects of those things on my well-being and I am willing to be abstinence.

Reese

[step3]

Hi Reese, and welcome to FAA!

We're so glad you've found us. Honestly, I don't know how many reached the doors of FAA being able to fully take the First Step: We admitted we powerless over our food addiction, and that our lives had become unmanageable. Taking that Step in its entirety is necessary to be able to maintain abstinence and recovery, but for most, it's a process to get there. What worked for me with it was to Keep it Simple... I went to lots of phone meetings and kept an open mind about the whole thing. I listened carefully and I also shared what was on my heart. Newcomers are welcome to share if they like, but it's not required~ whatever feels best for you is fine.

It's also amazing how many other issues resolve themselves once abstinence has been attained and the food addict is in the process of recovery through the 12 Steps. It seems strange, but what was going on with the food and how it affected us not only physically, but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, actually caused or worsened many problems in our lives.

I'd recommend finding a sponsor and also getting onto the suggested FAA food plan as soon as you can. Also, please think about getting to some FAA meetings as well.

Recovery is possible, and with the fellowship it's not a lonely process. Keep coming back, Reese!

Warmly,
step3

[ChristieG]

That's amazing sweetheart!

Keep up the awesome mental breakthroughs... Epiphanies are regular when you are growing. Its good you have gotten this far. Welcome!

Christie