Sources and references for: Saying Yes When You Really Mean No

Question:

I have been a compulsive eater for many years, but I have now decided to stop. For almost two weeks it has gone very well. This evening however, I sat here and felt awful and sad. It all began at 3 p.m. today. Peter arrived here to have coffee with me; he was formerly my workmate. I don't know him very well. I thought it was a totally pointless visit as I don't get anything out of talking to him. I don't know whether I sense that Peter is interested in me, but I am not at all interested in him.

Then I went to visit my mother who has recently had an operation and been unable to work, which she finds boring and depressing. I became terribly hungry when I was there and ate cottage cheese and yoghurt. In the evening I had arranged to meet my friend James in town. I felt very restless and worried and a longing for goodies came irresistibly over me. I tried to lie down and relax, but couldn't, perhaps because my mother was sitting here. I told her that I could just as well go into town earlier and look at the shops. I knew that this time I wouldn't be able to stop my gluttony, but I said goodbye and left. On the way I went into a shop and bought biscuits, a packet of cookies, half a kilo of small goodies, mainly chocolate and much more. I ate them all up on the way into town and when I got there I didn't feel well. I was sad and wasn't keen on meeting James. (Both James and Peter are only friends for me, I am not interested in them as boyfriends).

James didn't come; actually I only waited for a few minutes and then went. He phoned just now; he had been standing on the other side and we missed each other, but we shall try again next week. On the way home I intended to buy my favourite salad, but I bought two double hamburgers instead!

My question is: Why just today? My situation is the same as yesterday when I didn't binge. Whatever it is I intend to struggle and not give up.

Susanne (age 22)

Sources, references:

1. The personal experience of Gunborg Palme, certified psychologist and certified psychotherapist, teacher and tutor in psychotherapy.