Need a shrink?

So, I've been in a slump lately. I've been experiencing a lot of minor problems resulting from my surgery...and all those little problems are adding up to one HUGE headache for me. I have so many vitamin deficiencies it's not even funny, a pottasium deficiency which is causing numbness and cramping in my legs, my hair is falling out (because I'm protein deficient too) my blood pressure is low and that causes me to feel like I'm going to pass out sometimes. I know none of these things are major but it's just a pain in the butt to ALWAYS feel lousy. Anyway, I talked to my Dr about this and he asked me if I would hurt myself and of course I said no but followed that up with "but if I died tomorrow I probably wouldn't mind too much cause I'm tired of being misreable." He asked me if I go to my support group and still post on here and I told him not really because as happy as I am for everyone that they're doing so well I'm just tired of feeling like an outcast cause I seem to be the only person who at least somewhat regrets having this surgery. Anyway....I was just wondering what you all thought about me going to see a shrink. Do you guys think that's neccessary? I guess what I'm really asking is has anyone else felt at least slightly like I do...like they may have made a mistake having the surgery? Just want a little feedback! Sarah 361/248/150ish

Sarah, I have never regretted the surgery, but I sure regret having another one so close to the first one. I suffer from a variety of "problems". Most are temporary, but that doesn't make me feel any better. I seem to rotate. Monday- Sinus pain from nasal surgery, Tuesday-tried chicken again; mistake; sick all day. Weds.- Menopausal hot flashes and cramping, Thurs.- Migraine, Friday- naughty children and PMS. Everyday it is something. But,...............BEFORE surgery, Mon.-wheelchair, blood sugar sky high, Tues.- Bed, muscle cramping and migraine, Wed. - depression, leg cramps, body aches from uncomfortable sleep, sleep apnea every night.I was unable to work and having chest pains, too. Many of us are having aches and pains and adjustment problems. But the best thing about this support group is that people here CARE and really understand in a way that non-WLS people cannot. Feel free to kvetch(complain) anytime. I did for the last three weeks after my nasal surgery. You WILL feel better. And, YES, get a psychologist if only for a reality check. But shop around and find one who understands WLS. The rest are clueless. I went through two before I found one. Lou Ann

Hey Lou Ann, Thanks for reminding me that I'm not the only person who has issues. I believe it was you who told me once before misery loves company. As awful as it sounds, it's nice to know that I'm not the only person who things aren't going wonderful for. You ladies are my reality check and I appreciate it!!! Sarah

I look at it this way... would talking to someone really hurt? Know what I mean? Like LouAnn said, shop around for someone who is familiar with working with WLS patients. We have a dedicated shrink that is apart of our before and after care program at our hospital. So if I need to just "talk" that is where I would go. I am sorry I can't be of much help since I have a really good support group here so I have been able to talk it out amoung friends. Now everyone is blessed with weekly meetings like I have! Good luck sweetie, and let us know if we can do anything for you! BIG HUGS~ Jamie

Dear Sarah, Gosh, you are having some pesky problems that are interfering with your 'quality of life." But you have done so marvelous with the weight loss. That is definitely a big plus. I have had anemia, and some dizzy spells. I also have had 3 bladder infections, and 3 episodes of gout(never had it before.(It can be brought on by stress to the body, or a high protein diet!!!!!! It's a painful arthritic condition in the joint of the big toe, making even covers on your foot unbearable. I did get my PCP to prescribe an anti-anxiety medicine, and that has helped. I desperately want to lose more weight, but the scale has not moved. By all means, take any step that will give you some peace of mind, and help your work through the depression and regret you're feeling now. Can you up your protein to combat the low protein???? And I take potassium supplements! Please stay in touch, and let us all know if your situation improves!!!!!!!!!!!!! Dianne

Thank you guys for your replies. I am sorry to hear that you are having problems too Dianne...Hope everything works itself out for you!! As for more protien, I can't possibly eat anymore than I already do. I read what some of you other ladies are able to eat at this point and I'm amazed. I think I'm just progressing a little slower. I do take potassium supplements, but everytime the Dr. tells me to go off of them it goes back down. What a pain in the tush!! I appreciate all of your support. I think without this message board and everyone's kind words I'd REALLY be in a world of hurt!!! Sarah

Hi Sarah, I am so sorry that you are going through all this. I want you to change your focus. I don't know if you have children or a big loving family but I do know that there was a POSITIVE reason for you to have the WLS. Please know that you have made amazing progress. You weighed THREE HUNDRED AND SIXTY-ONE POUNDS. Please focus on the GOOD things that have happened through all this. If you could take the surgery back would you for any reason want to weigh that much again???? I weighed 330 lbs. and I had surgery January 25th I now weigh 240. It has not been easy at all but I'm in this fight to WIN my life back. COME ON GIRL.....FIGHT. Oh my goodness you can do it. Keep in touch with me on your progress. I have a wonderful vitamin suggestion if you want it give me your e:mail address and I can send you the information. [email protected]