Weight gain prompts reader to consider food addicition

Dear Annie: I have struggled with weight my entire life. I finally had bariatric surgery in 2014. I had complications and was very sick. Once I was better, the weight came off, and I kept it off for 3 1/2 years. I retired, and we sold our house and relocated from Ohio to Florida. Ever since, I have been eating sweets and snacks, and I’ve gained back 50 pounds of the 200 I lost. Could it be that I am addicted to food? I really need your advice. Emotional Eater Dear Emotional Eater: Food addiction is real, and it very much could be what you’re experiencing. The upheaval of the move may have caused some anxiety, prompting you to return to eating as a source of comfort. Enlist the help of a therapist, and consider joining a support network such as Food Addicts Anonymous (https://www. foodaddictsanonymous.org) or Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (https://www. foodaddicts.org).

Dear Annie: I am a Vietnam vet. I am not going to tell you all the horrendous details about my time in the service, but I have a bad back from falling out of a chopper while being rescued.

I was married before I went into the service. She said she would be there for me. But when I got back, I could tell it was over. I never asked her why she stopped loving me, but I have loved her all this time. We went out and found her an apartment, and I painted it for her and fixed a stove for her. I divorced her several years later. Since then, I have not married. She has.

The war and the wife have destroyed me. I will not call for help with anybody. Should I Give Up? Dear Should I Give Up?: I’m sorry for the pain you’re still living with. I care about you, and so do many others. You say you won’t call anyone for help, but you already have by reaching out with your letter. Take the next step and try connecting with someone. The Wounded Warrior Project organizes peer support groups for veterans; you can find out more information by calling 888-997-2586 or emailing resourcecenter@ woundedwarriorproject.org.