Irrational Fears Post-Op

I had my surgery 7 weeks ago and since, I have been having fears that I only have one "good" year to lose the weight... I've read in so many posts that we need to "take advantage" of our malabsorption year to 1) create new healthy habits (which I am on board with and doing) and 2) to lose as much weight as possible, because things slow down in year 2,3,4, etc. 

Well... #2 has me panicking and feeling like I am "on the clock".  Anyone else feeling like this?  I literally feel stressed that I am two months out and only have 10 months left.  On the positive side, it is pushing me to exercise daily - but I am worried that I'm transferring one addiction (unhealthy overeating pre-surgery) to a panicked state of having to use up every minute post-surgery working on losing weight. 

Just wondering if this is just me (in which case - a serious discussion is warranted with my therapist ) or if this is a common feeling.

Good morning.  I can understand what you're saying.  I went to my first support group meeting and they pretty much said the same.  That said, it's up to us to keep on with the healthy habits right?  I haven't had surgery yet, but I know this - even if I gain back 20 pds after reaching goal - it's STILL better than where I am today.  I'll be healthier.  My thinking is don't worry about a number.  Focus on your health, well-being and that you feel good.  Talking to your therapist never hurts either - sometimes through talking it out, we discover the answers we already knew.  You're self-aware, which is great - not everyone has that.  You're doing great.  :)

VERY common. Just follow the program and you will do great! I remember thinking what if I don't loose x amount....I am still shocked I am below my goal, never mind 25 lower than my surgeons goal! 

You can do this, take it a day at a time.

Annette 👍

The weight will come off.  Just stick to your plan.  Try not to stress, as you will hit many stalls along the way ( I have had a couple of ones that lasted months).  Take your  measurements and when the scale does stall, you will be amazed that you have lost inches.  I too was worried that I wouldn't lose the weight I wanted, but by the 6 month mark I had already reached my clinics goal, and at my one year appointment I was told I could start maintenance (which I am not starting as I want to lose a little more). I also had some medical issues (unrelated to wls) that prevented me from exercising, and I still lost weight.  There are also many people on this forum who have continued to lose weight after the one year mark..so please don't stress about it. Also keep in mind that it is harder to lose weight the closer you are to goal as you have less to lose.

Try not to stress..just enjoy the ride.

Vicky

Very common. I had anxiety around weight loss, especially that I had some ticking clock in the background counting down my time to lose weight. I was also really anxious around the idea of stretching my pouch. At the 6 month mark, when I could noticeable eat larger portions (which is totally normal and supposed to happen) I really freaked out. Not that portions were huge, far from it, but around that time you can start to eat a little more than your little half cup.

I wish I had some advice to give but I just had to wait for it to pass. I am an anxious person in general. I think it's good to be a little anxious, it means you care but don't let it destroy you - use it to your advantage to help keep you on track.

You will be utterly amazed at how much weight can come off in 1 year.  I'm a month away from my 1 year mark and am below the lowest weight the clinic set for me.  I wouldn't mind dropping another 18 lbs, but if I don't no biggie.    You need to focus on how you feel and your health and not the numbers.  The numbers will drive you crazy (spoken like a true anti-math person ;) ).  It is STILL possible to lose weight after 1 year (and it's not like "DING!" on the 1 year anniversary the malabsorption just stops ... it kinds of peters off), by continuing to monitor food intake, exercise, etc.  It just doesn't come flowing off like it has for the first while.

Just breathe and keep following your program and all will be wonderful! :)

TES