Hi there ! I’ve had 4 cycles of EC chemo and about to start 12 weekly Paclitaxel for breast cancer. I have teenage history of bulimia and lifetime of emotional eating and I’m finding that I’m emotionally eating and have already gained 9 pounds in weight which is making me panic. My response to feeling sick is to eat (apart from 1sr few days after chemo) and my 1st response to anxiety - even at 3am.
im wondering if anyone else can relate ? I’m in a panic about this and feel that the whole cancer experience so far is that my body is not my own, and this is before mastectomy. Feeling sad and lonely
Hi Vikki and I see it's your first post on the community so welcome.
I am so sorry to hear about the challenges you are dealing with and lets look for anyone with first hand experience to come along and help you out.
It is often good to talk with others who are on the same treatments as each treatment can react differently so can I recommend that you consider joining our supportive Breast cancer group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using). You will then see a dropdown menu so hit ‘Chat’ or ‘New here, say hello’ and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also search through existing ‘Discussions’ and click [reply] if you want to put up a comment.
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. You may also find our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
Hi Vikki
Welcome and sorry to hear about your struggles at the moment. I certainly can relate to your struggles with emotional eating. I suffer from anxiety and depression and find when ever I’m feeling upset o anxious I tend to overeat particularly chocolate and sweets.
I generally find that doing the things that I love doing helps with the anxiety I sometimes feel.
I hope things improve for you soon.
Best wishes
Daisy53
