Anesthesia = depression later?

About one week after my gastric bypass surgery I spent 2 or 3 days doing nothing but crying. I was scared, sad, alone, depressed, etc. I've read a lot of posts on the main messageboard that indicate a lot of people go through this after WLS. Some say it is because we are mourning food. I chalked mine up to be scared to death that I was going to mess this surgery up and that even though I had my insides re-arranged I would always be fat girl who weighed 380 lbs. The excessive crying eventually stopped and the depression went away. And obviously I am no longer a fat girl who weighs 380 lbs! Anyway, the last two days I have been very emotional. Crying at the drop of the hat. Today I have done nothing but sit in bed and bawl...about everything...just like after the RNY surgery in March. I feel scared, sad, alone, depressed and worried that I will always be a fat girl even though I've lost over 150 lbs! My gallbladder surgery was last Thursday. Could it be the after affects of the anesthesia that is making me so depressed? Just wondering if anyone has any insight. Hope you are all having a wonderful Thursday. Laura

Have you been stuck inside since your surgery? It could also be SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder(?). My Psychologist thinks I may have this. I get awful depression in the wintertime and when the weather is bad outside. Believe it or not, sunshine and fresh air actually makes me feel better! Of course, I do take Prozac and have taken it for years because..well..I have issues. LOL! But the SAD symptoms kick in even with the Prozac. I don't know about the anesthesia. I've only been under anesthesia once, for my Gastric bypass surgery. I cried and was depressed after that too. Basically thinking I had ruined my life by mutilating my body and things would never be the same. Of course, I have gotten over it. Maybe someone else will be able to shed more light on this. Kathy

That could very well be part of the problem. I have been house bound since the surgery. I've gone out a few times to the doctor's office, back to the hospital, etc., so I've had very little exposure to the sun. Unfortunately I have pneumonia so I'm not suppose to be outside much either! Need one of those fake sunlight lamps or something.

I agree with Kathy. If oyu have been stuck inside since last Thursday that ould depress anyone. The next day the sun come out go sit by the window and let the sun just hit your face (it works). Get better soon. The pneumonia will make anyone feel bad (I ended up with it after my surgery and had to stay in the hospital almost 3 wks after my surgery). Drink plenty of fluids. Once you start feeking better from you surgert you will be back to your normal self. Take care and get better soon MJ

Laura, I have heard of this happening to others. I'm so sorry you are feeling sad and I hope it passes quickly. Feel better soon, both mentally and physically. Hugs, Stephanie

Hi Laura, I'm sorry you're feeling so low! You poor thing. I have heard of this happening to people, the anesthesia stays in your system for a while, I think you're right. Have you been home alone all day? That would do it to me. Being sick and stuck alone is very depressing. I know you can't go outside, but try to even just sit by a window, try reading a good book and take care of yourself. I'm sorry you're blue Just know it will pass, you'll be back to yourself in no time. Sending you get well wishes!!!