Transfer Addictions..Beware

Monica, how brave you are.  It sounds like you are in control now, and that is important.  I will keep you in my prayers.  You can always come here to talk.

Dear sweet Monica, I was wondering just the other day where you were. I'm so proud of you for coming forth and witing your story. It took a lot of courage and humility to do so, but I'm sure just the act of admitting your problem to us must be empowering in itself.

Your OFF family is here for you, as always. No judgements here, just love and support. I'm so glad you're with family this winter, probably just where you need to be. Besides, you'll have computer access and be able to hang out with your other family!

Please take care, and do it one day at a time.

Hugs and prayers, as always

ongoing love and prayers for you sweet monica.....always.........

Monica,

Once again I am reminded that it wasn't brain surgery. I so wish we were physically close enough to sit and share in person. It takes a lot of courage to put things down in the written form. I know that once I push that "send" button that "it" is out there.

I am fighting the "grazing" demon again. I so need to really get back to that every day routine of putting myself, exercise, and my food program first. I have become lax and when I do, it comes back to bite me in the behind.

I used to think to myself that I wished I were an alcoholic or a drug addict instead of a food addict. I thought at least that drugs of any kind could be eliminated from one's life whereas food has to be there to some extent. All of that I realize is still twisted thinking. Twisted thinking got me to 377 lbs and it can get me there again or into some other forms of addiction.

Monica, thank you for your openness and honesty in coming to us. I have missed you so much. I haven't been taking the time to post. Many new people to OFF don't even really know me. When I pull away it is my loss. Welcome home, please don't be a stranger. As with anything else, Monica, "one day at a time." Sometimes for me it's one hour, even one minute at a time until I get a better grip. Hang on dear friend, remember that we were told that it would be one hell of a ride. . . and it sure is. Sending lots of positive thoughts your way.  Hugs,

Monica,
My heart goes out to you. I am so glad you are on your 21st day of no drinking. I know first hand about transfer addictions. I am addicted to Starbucks coffee and the thrift stores. but I think that is a good addiction.. I have learned how to control it by not buying out the store.
If and when you ever come to Florida look me up. We can go for a good ole sistah chat~~~~~~
Carla

Monica, I know it took a lot of courage to post about your problem....God Bless you and I'm sure He will as you proceed to take back control of your life.  I can certainly understand how one could get in trouble not just with alcohol but other things as well....

I will say a prayer for you each day, as you continue to
improve.

Hugs,
Pat R.

Dearest Monica,

You wrote with insight and bravery. You will continue to receive love, support and admiration from your OFF family. We are behind you 100%.

My prayers and heart go out to you
Annette

Thank you, Monica, for your openess and honesty.  I really hope sharing helps you to deal with all this.  You have my prayers and respect.

I'm glad to hear you are not isolated and look forward to sharing your progress to the rest of your wonderful life ahead of you.

Hugs,

Kathi

We have lots of addiction issues in my family, including alcoholism and pain pill addiction.  I have learned quite a bit about it through family members.  Enough to realize that I also have an addiction to food and it could easily transfer to another addiction.  Transfer addiction is pretty common, I understand.  There are quite a few WLS people, who then become alcoholics.  You are not alone, which I am sure you must realize by now.

Congrats to your new sober life!!!  Take one day at a time, talk to your sponser everyday, and draw closer to your God.

prayers and hugs,
Linda

Dear Monica,

Thank you for such a brave, insightful and IMPORTANT post.  I'm so proud of you for your 21 days of sobriety  - and of your commitment to the days ahead. 

Transfer addictions happen, and it is so important for all of us to be aware of this very real possibility.   In my years on the OH boards, I've read postings from people who have transferred their food addiction to alcohol, gambling, compulsive shopping, and other things.  Once we don't have food to lean on, we can go toward other sources of gratification.  Personally, I've been in counseling every other week since BEFORE my surgery - and I still go at over two years out. (Thank goodness for a great insurance plan!)   I need my counselor's help to keep me focused on those emotional issues that I still need to address.

Your bravery to tell us about your experience and your journey to sobriety just may help more people than you know.   You will be in my thoughts and prayers.  Sending hugs your way!