Amazed,
first of all, hugs.
Second, I think most people have comfort foods, regardless whether they are overweight.
One trick I do, is that if I buy junk food like M&Ms, I only buy one small pkg at a time. Or, if I buy a lge pkg, I divide it in tiny snack ZipLock bags and make sure I only eat one snack bag.
I don't think novocaine will work! You're only miserable for a short time, and it won't change your thinking patterns.
I only have eating issues for short times--I'll go on a binge for a wk and then get sick of whatever it is for a yr ... but I have a friend I can tell you about.
I have been walking with-him for almost a yr now. He is easily 100 lbs overwt., maybe 200 (It's hard to tell because he's tall, too.) He gained wt when he changed careers and started writing full time (lots of seat of the pants work, typing), and then he ruined his knee (I think he was cutting the grass). I don't know if you've ever been into sports, but he was in the army--a paratrooper--and a runner, and he wanted to get back to that, so that's part of his incentive. Also, he's so uncomfortable ... he says it's hard to breathe. He described it the other day and I said, "That's just like being pregnant!"
He gives up soda pop ... and then goes back to it.
I think he's given it up a half dozen times since I've known him. I have tried to get him to drink tea if he wants caffeine but he insists he hates it (never mind the umpteen different flavors). He loves milk and ice cream.
Don't we all!
He has lost a lot of wt but still has a long way to go. It can be very discouraging. I try not to say anything unless it's a question or a compliment because he'll shut me out. I'm his walking partner and he needs that support.
Ironically, he is up to about 9 miles a day (5 miles, a break, then 4 miles) and I can't seem to make it past 3 miles b4 my legs give out.
Someone here suggested Xanax. I think that's a good idea. I would try that, along with-a therapist for a while, and find a supportive friend with whom you can walk and talk and do whatever it is you like to do.
Alyssa, 4:30 a.m.? LOL. No wonder your nickname here is Upallnight!