Article Discussion: Emotional Challenges after Bariatric Surgery

[b2g Admin]

This thread has been started for the discussion of the above titled article.

After reading the article, please feel free to share your comments or questions.

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[heartfire]

This was a good article.

I have to say that I have been truly Blessed in that I don't have family/friend "issues" and have had a lot of support throughout my process.

What I was blindsided by though was the head stuff. I'm working through that but I sure didn't expect all of that. I thought I was fine til I had surgery! It's been difficult but I am working through things. Though I have been doing the head stuff on my own, I would highly recommend finding a counselor to work with.

[newlifeat57]

I completely understand how this could all happen. I'm not in a position where I have experienced most of the issues mentioned (I haven't lost enough weight, yet), however I ride that emotional roller coaster often--lots of ups and downs. Michelle makes a good point... Counseling is a good idea. Hopefully, knowing that these things could happen will help others deal with them as they pop up.

[sarcasticandsmart]

Great Article!

It goes right along with the decision I made to end an unhappy marriage with a man who enabled me to continue on my path of self-destruction. I now have a man who supports me and gives me hell when I need it.

[Patrick]

All of the factual paragraphs were not nearly, in my opinion, as important as the last one. SUPPORT - SUPPORT - SUPPORT
I am blessed to have that at home, but many aren't and are faced with additional struggles.
Joining in here will be a super antidote to those problems. There is not any judgement here, just love and unconditional support. We are honest with each other, willing to correct misconceptions and offer powerful suggestions, but the depth of understanding where everyone is coming from and trying to get to, is INDESCRIBABLE!!!!!

[Serenity55]

I have a wonderful support system that includes my friends and family. Though some were concerned when I first mentioned getting the band, almost everyone has been great.

What I find really helpful besides my therapist and the meetings sponsored by my surgeon, is the fact that I can come here and talk to people who really understand. As much as I know my family and friends are rooting for me, are proud and supportive, it's important for me to know there are those who really understand the struggle.
It all works together for good.

Debbie

[Kaelesa]

This article provides good information. I was struck by the paragraph about the changing hormones. Even though I knew that hormones were being stored in my fat cells, I hadn't thought about what could happen as I lose weight. I was taking a drug to stop me from having heavy periods that were directly related to bing so overweight. I had to quit taking them before my surgery, and by the time I could restart them, I didn't need them - I'd gone through menopause (finally!).

I started seeing a counselor after my psych eval, upon their recommendation. I'm still seeing my counselor at least a couple times a month. It has helped me sort through a lot of issues, and to define where I want my life to go from here. Someday I might decide what I want to be when I grow up Since I will be 56 in a couple months, it's about time... The support groups established by my surgeon are all a little further away than I want to drive, so I was glad to find this sight, where I can get help with questions and find some support.

[unipat]

I dind't have my surgery yet but I am wondering if you already have a mental illness is the surgery going to make it worse because of the hormone factor?

[MoOrLess]

I dind't have my surgery yet but I am wondering if you already have a mental illness is the surgery going to make it worse because of the hormone factor?

That's a good question, of which I have no idea. I do know that changing your eating and lifestyle can bring more stress into your life until you adjust, and it would be a really good idea to discuss your concerns with the medical team you are working with prior to getting banded, and after banding. Support is essential and your surgeon is the best place to begin, and/or a psychiatrist if you were required to see one prior to band surgery. Best wishes as you proceed to a healthier lifestyle and please let us know what you've learned. I'm sure someone else has asked the same question or thought about it.

[Mrs Sabre]

My marriage has always been strong, and my love life got better with my weight loss.

I have always had a touch of body dysmorphia ... whether too thin (many years ago with Grave's disease) or too heavy. I only see myself accurately from pictures.