Why does food make me feel better?

Whenever I am upset the first thing I reach for is food.  Then of course  I feel like crap.  When I get the alone time I need I grab food as another companion which doesn't make sense.  I need to get back on track.  I need to set a good example for my kids.  I need to take better care of myself.  Food is like my drug and I finally know what an addict feels like. This has to stop today.  I leave for my cruise in 2 months and I want to look and feel good about myself!