I feel so empty at night. Like I need to keep filling myself with anything. I need some advice desperately

I've definitely been there. Over the years, it has gotten much better. I think therapy helped a lot even when eating habits were not directly worked on. What has helped me when I have an insatiable appetite born from psychological needs, rather than genuine hunger, is to eat as much as I feel like, but keep it healthy. At least then, you don't feed into the sugar/carb craving cycle. Eventually, your body and mind will find a natural set point and you won't feel as driven to eat as much. I would also suggest a couple other strategies...take a moment to assess yourself. Ask yourself, "what do I really need right now?" The answer might appear to be alcohol or food, but the answer is probably moreso along the lines of stress relief, anxiety relief, comfort, companionship, or some other form of self-care. When you figure out what it is that you need, attempt to meet that need in some other way. That might be calling someone, watching TV or reading, journaling, going for a walk, art activities, petting an animal. What has helped me the most in my own off and on flirtation with disordered eating is accepting myself even when I feel I have no willpower, no self-control, and make mistakes. Other people would still love me if I told them I can't keep myself out of the kitchen (new rule: don't eat standing up) for longer than five minutes. I try to care for myself for like I would a child or a good friend. Acknowledge your cravings, desires, and needs and ACCEPT them. They are not bad. Everything you are doing is a natural way of coping. You are doing excellent! 14 days alcohol-free is commendable. I believe that in time, you'll be able to manage the food stuff, but getting rid of the alcohol is step 1. One last thing- consider disclosing your struggles to a trusted person in your life. When you find that they still care for you, it can be very therapeutic - reduce shame and normalize the struggle.

/r/stopdrinking Thread