Eating is something people often take for granted until faced with a situation in which they are unable to eat. The loss of the ability to eat is similar to any loss we may experience in our lives. It is common to mourn this loss or to have an extended period of grief or sadness.
Being unable to participate socially in mealtimes may leave some people feeling disconnected and isolated from those whom they love. It is important to identify and recognize these very normal feelings. If you would like help dealing with these emotions, you may want to discuss them with your health care professionals so you can be directed to appropriate counseling and resources.
Researchers have found that feelings about food vary depending on a person’s illness, their ability to tolerate food, or the need to avoid or restrict certain foods. Those who need to relearn how to eat after surgery or a stroke may struggle or feel challenged; those who are not able to eat at all report dreaming of ethnic foods or exotic meals, or longing for the way they used to eat in the past. People who have to avoid certain foods may find it difficult to resist the temptation to eat these foods, and are bothered by the many food commercials on TV.
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