In addition to eating from hunger, emotional eaters eat in an effort to manage stress. Without intervention, emotional eating can become a habit. As with all habits, repetition is required to break create change.
Depression or Other Emotional Condition
According to the American Psychological Assoction, those who suffer from depression are very likely to turn to emotional eating to cope with their feelings. If you are feeling depressed and unmotivated as a result, eating is a comforting thing to do. Eating is vital to having a healthy body. However, most people who are eating as a result of depression are eating foods high in sugar and fat. Sugar and fat alter dopamine and seratonin levels in the brain, allowing the person to feel feelings of pleasure. If you suffer from depression or find that your emotions are leading you to eat, consider seeking counseling to address your emotional issues. In the meantime, try to replace unhealthy food choices with healthier choices.
Boredom
Many people begin overeating due to pure boredom. Lack of pleasurable activities or social interests can often lead you to eat even when you're not hungry. If you don't feel hungry, seek pleasure in an activity, such as taking a walk, reading a book or magazine or calling a friend, rather than in food.
Unhealthy Relationship with Food
Some people start and continue to eat emotionally as a way to distract themselves from issues and emotions. Low self esteem or a poor body image often are triggers for emotional eating. Create a healthy relationship with food by keeping track of what you're eating as well as why you're eating it. Develop a support system to manage your stressors instead of turning to food as a coping mechanism.
