Emotionally ready post-opp
I keep seeing people say make sure you are emotionally ready... So my question is, how can I prepare myself emotionally for life before and after gastric bypass? I know regardless it's going to be emotionally draining with your body going through all these changes but what are some tips, pointers or advice to make this process a little smoother.
You will likely have anywhere from 6mths to a year in wait time depending which clinic you are involved with. During that time many of us found it helpful to use the time to our advantage. Start to eliminate you trigger foods and poorest food choices, maybe join a support group in your area bariatric or food related (awesome to make friends with people in the same position), ask your Dr for counselling or therapy if you feel you have unresolved issues from your past that contribute to your over eating.
I read your last post....and I too felt all those same things as you did. I felt my quality of life was extremely low. I had been in treatment for depression and anxiety for about 4yrs at the point I decided this was my only choice...I had no where left to go but up!!!! I had worked through many of my issues, but found my weight was always a huge factor in my overall happiness (or lack there of).
Don't worry what your friends think. They will come and go... true ones will be there when you need to lean on them. You are fortunate you have your family on board as well. I told my 2 closest friends, my spouse, and a friend who I knew had the surgery a few years prior.....my family doesn't know. Regardless its not about them...its 100% you. Day in, day out you will need to be your own best cheerleader and supporter. They WILL NOT understand this crazy process......but WE do!! YOU have to want it.....if you do....it works!!!! I had no serious health issues, no meds pre-surgery. I too worried I would just be causing myself potential problems. But the reality was.....it was just a matter of time before my luck would run out as I'm in my 40's and have diabetes and heart issues in my family.
My surgery was July 2015. Since then I have lost 95lbs. But here's what I've GAINED : a life that makes me happy, I look forward to getting out of bed, I love being out and about and HOPE I will run into someone I know, I have my self control and self respect, I feel AMAZING!!!!!
Was it the right choice for me???? HELL YA!!!! But I also felt it was my only choice. and I don't credit a "friend or family member" with any of my success ...it was ALL ME!!!! As it will need to be ALL YOU in this journey. That's what being EMOTIONALLY READY means to me. Its true there are things in this process that are unpleasant and tough....but the rewards and benefits are indescribable. I'm sure you have read that people referring to their surgery as a gift.......believe it...because it really is !!!!!
I wish you well and I hope you find the answers you are looking for.
SW- 260 GW- 150 CW -138 Height - 5'5 RNY- St Josephs Hamilton July 17/2015
Find a therapist who is trained in CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Step One.
Karen
Ontario Recipes Forum - http://www.obesityhelp.com/group/ontario_recipes/