I have been suffering from panic for the past two years do to a bad car accident. Subsequntly I have gained about 50 pounds. I have tried every motivational technique I could find but it seems the diet and exercise add to the anxiety. Food is the perfect calmer. Has anyone overcome this , any advise. Thanks Greg

I think the reason that food is the perfect calmer is because we've conditioned ourselves to feel better with food. Its a natural thing to eat and so because it fills a real need like hunger we think it will fill our emotional needs as well. You notice you only feel a temporary relief. It is a great distraction. It fills our tastebuds, our noses, our hands and our mouths. We use more of our senses when we eat and therefore its a great distractor. You could try using something else to comfort you. How about a good aroma candle and a good book. Drinking more water helps. Or taking up a new interest. Building models, a sport, cards, whatever. I'm certainly no expert, just hope I could offer something to help.
Reena

Right on, Reena.

Food is a distraction. Most of the time only masking the real problem.

Most diets failed because, and I learned this from this program, when we take away the food, we never put anything back in its place. Diet plans should be more than just what to eat and what not to eat. Diet plans should also include a fall back plan - what other distractions are available to you?

The expectation and the deprivation really could cause more anxiety. Sure.

For me, looking good is not a strong enough motivation to lose weight or exercise. Be responsible for my own health is. In that case, decrease the consumption of certain food is not a deprivation, instead it is a smart decision. Exercise is not a dread, instead it is a smart choice, as well.

Just looking things from a different angle.

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