Question

Hi everyone. I have my psych eval tomorrow morning and was wondering if ANYBODY could give me a heads up on what to expect. What kind of test is this and (I know this sounds stupid) is it possible to fail it??? Thanks!! Kathy

Hi, Kathy. About the only way you can fail this test is if you pause to put your fingers down your throat and hurl during the interview. Seriously, I don't know exactly how extensive your interview will be, but they will basically try to make sure you aren't bulimic or anorexic (eating disorders) and that you have some inkling of the emotion issues that may arise as you loose weight. Most all of us have issues attached to our weight, many of us are prone to depression, so don't worry about that. Just be honest about your worries and fears. It's not a mark against you to acknowledge them, but rather a plus point that you aren't in denial about the changes that may take place. Some give a written test to get a feel for your personality type, and others just chat with you. I enjoyed mine thoroughly, and will see her again when the time comes to move my mother into assisted living. They like to know you have sense enough to ask for help if things get sticky. Hope this helps, and good luck! Barb in S. Ga

Hi Kathy. The Psych eval really isn't anything to worry about. Mine consisted of sitting down and talking to the doctor about my growing up, my family, my dieting history & why I think I needed this surgery. After talking with him I had to do a test which consisted of about 500 short questions that you answer by circling in the bubble as they are multiple choice. There isn't anything stressful about it but it is long. I had never been to a therapist of any kind and I kind of enjoyed it. Good luck! ~Bonnie

Ditto all the above. The psychologist I saw was trying to make sure that I (1) understood just how extensive the surgery is and how it will affect my basic lifestyle afterwards, (2) be sure that I had the commitment to sticking with the vitamin and eating regimine (sp?) required, (3) that I have a good enough support network to help me, and (4) be sure that I was not currently under so much stress that the additional stress of the surgery would "put me over the edge." They basically want to approve you, and generally will either approve, or approve "conditional upon getting some counseling through the process" or something like that. Best of success to you, Cheryl