Psych evaluation questions

So, I've scheduled all my appointments and am only nervous about my Psych evaluation. Can anyone give me a heads up about how this is going to go? What kind of questions do they ask? Should I dress up like church style or go for casual? Is there anything I shouldn't say? I've never been to a psychiatrist and I don't know what to even think about this. I'm so nervous they'll say I'm crazy! (serious) I mean, I've already thought about WLS for the past 3 years. I know what I want, and I know what it entails. Has anyone else felt this way, or have any suggestions to help me along? Also, has anyone else had an experience with Alex Mescavage? He's the guy doing the evaluation. Help!!!

Hello Amy I had my eval a few weeks ago. I too did not know what to expect. When I got to the office the Dr. was very nice and just talked to me. I mean he talked about my eating habits and did I have some kind of support (family or Friends) after the surgery when I get home. He wanted me to understand the risk and how I might have some mild depression after surgery. But over all it was not that bad. I did not know what to expect. I think they just want to know that this is what you want and are prepared mentally for it. Good Luck with your journey Sounds like we will be going along about the same time frame. Paula

Paula, Congrats to you!!! It does look like we are on the same track. I hope my meeting goes as well as yours. I have an awesome support team, and have been thinking about this for 3 years, so lets just hope and hope that mine goes as well! Thanks for the feedback too! Have you gotten a date yet? What surgery are you having done? Who's your insurance company? Sooo many questions! Good luck dear!

Amy, I do not have a date yet. I am finished with all my work up and I am now waiting for an appt with Dr. Murr. Then my paperwork will besent to the insurance company. There are alot of twists and turns to WLS and I am following the rules to a tee. I am with Humana HMO and I want to have RNY Lap. But, I still have to talk wth the Dr. I will look for you to post your psych experience. I got the bill today from mine, so I guess I passed. See Ya Paula

Amy not to worry I have never heard of anyone being turned down. I would go in a pair of jeans and comfy. Be yourself thats the only thing that you cna do. YOu cant pretend to be soneone else. We will be more than happy to be part of your support team. heather

Thank you!

I agree with Paula. The evaluation is to make sure you know what you have taken on as this is a big decision and one that cannot be taken lightly. Some doctors request have a multiple choice test of 300-500 questions regarding feelings, behavior and things like that. (Mine did not). they want to make sure you know the risk and are prepared for the good and the bad that could happen with this surgery. If you have studied this for 3 years, then you should know the pros and cons and should be fine. DO NOT WORRY.

Amy, Just be yourself and answer the doc's questions honestly. If you are not a good candidate (not saying that you aren't) for wls this interview may prevent you from doing something you're not truly ready for. I've only heard of a few folks that were put on "hold" due to psych eval. But it seemed to me that they were not really ready to make the lifelong commitment this surgery requires and going ahead with wls could have been a major mistake. As for the interview, you don't need to dress up, the doc will ask general questions about your family, work, social, etc. situations. Why do you want wls, what are your expectations, are you aware of risks & the long term consequences & reqirements, etc. You may also be asked to take a psychological evaluation test - usually the MMPI (Minnesota Multi-phasic Personality Inventory). No biggie! It is a multiple choice test of about 200 questions but it isn't something you can "fail". There are no right or wrong answers - it just evaluates your personality. Obviously folks with certain personality disorders should not have wls and this helps to identify those folks who could be psychologically, emotionally or physically harmed by wls due to their personality/psych. state of mind. Good luck! Vickie J. 277/146/142

Amy, don't worry about the psych eval, it's not as bad as you think!! You don't even get to lie down on the couch and be analyzed or anything! I read your profile and I'm glad you enjoyed meeting Rusty! If you have surgery on a certain day, he could be your "angel" and come visit you in the hospital. I am also one of the angels, so perhaps we will get to meet down the road. Breathe deeply and just be yourself at the psych appointment and you'll be fine! Jan