Get help for problems before it’s too late

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This article was published 15/11/2015 (3975 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Dear Miss Lonelyhearts: I’ve been having terrifying flashbacks about my childhood sexual abuse and now I’m drinking and binge eating. I can’t stop. It scares me how much I eat and I’m a wino on top of a food abuser. I’m the queen of macaroni and cheese — I eat double pots at a time. I used to tell myself wine went with any food. What do you suggest? I’m drowning in food and drink and reality TV where people are just as miserable. I work from home so nobody sees me. I pass out drunk every night. Please help. — Way Out of Control, Winnipeg

Dear Way Out of Control: You need a psychiatrist at this point. By now you probably have multiple reasons for stuffing yourself with food and drink — comfort from the memory pain, rewarding yourself for making it through another night or pleasure in food. Maybe it’s the only pleasure you feel you have left.

Psychiatrists are covered by Medicare, when referred by a doctor. You need to go to your doctor, confess everything you’ve been doing and say you are at the crisis point. That could mean a waiting list, but at least the therapy would not cost you. In the meantime, check out the programs offered by Alcoholics Anonymous and Overeaters Anonymous. People there will not judge you, as they are in the same boat, and that can also include having pasts that include sexual abuse.

Please send your questions and comments to lovecoach@hotmail.com or Miss Lonelyhearts c/o the Winnipeg Free Press, 1355 Mountain Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2X 3B6

Miss Lonelyhearts
Advice Columnist

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