Hello I'm a Newbie :)

Hi all :)

I am new to this site and actually new to getting info on the weight loss surgeries.  I am 35, weigh 222lbs, and am 5'4" tall.  I live in Lakeview, Or. We've been here for a year so far.  I have yet to get a regular doctor though.  I feel depressed all of the time, but nothing I think I need medicine for.  I'm tired a lot.  Don't generally ever feel like going anywhere but that's how I deal with being overweight.  I don't want anyone to see my like this. 

I'm miserable.  I have tried countless diets, a treadmill and stair-master in the basement, starving myself, and nothing seems to help.  I don't over eat, in fact my son tells me I don't eat enough.  I still haven't lost any weight though. In fact I think I may be gaining.  

So really I am here to find out how to get this process started.  I have OHP standard (it may be plus, not sure) . I just don't know what to do. 

If anyone out there has made it through my ramblings and has some good advice, I would greatly appreciate it.  Thanks in advance :)

Hi, welcome. I think the place to start would be the insurance. Have you called OHP and asked if WLS was covered and asked for a list of providers that take OHP? They should be able to direct you on what steps to take.
Good luck to you.

Thank you :) I guess I have some phone calls to make tomorrow  lol

Hello and Welcome.  First off I'd call your insurance company and see if your policy covers weight loss surgery. You may or may not need your regular PCP to refer you to get the ball started. If you do, set up an appointment with your PCP tell them you are wanting WLS, and please give you a ref. If not your insurance can give you a list of participating surgeons/clinics and you can call there and schedule an appointment to discuss your options. During that time research ALL the WLS options. (your plan may not cover all of them upfront, but you can always appeal if you want a DS rather than a RNY, etc.) You may have a 6 month diet program you have to complete as well, some do some don't, your insurance can tell you what they require for surgery. You'll also have a lot of Dr. appointments to do during that time as well.

As for depression, you could start seeing a therapist who deals with people with eating disorders and the resulting depression. It does not mean you have to take a drug for it. Cognitive therapy works well along side the journey of WLS. In fact,  most Dr.'s suggest it as the saying goes "we don't operate on your brain" and cognitive therapy helps give you just a little more insight into what you may be dealing with as well as things that will come up after the surgery as well. Have you been diagnosed with SAD? (seasonal affective disorder) It is very common in the Northwest and is usually treatable without drugs. Also check with your insurance about coverage for this, as many insurances will cover treatment/therapist visits.