Happy to find the group

 Just wanted to stop in and say hello. Glad to have found this group.

I had surgery 11 months ago, gastric sleeve. Down about 100 lbs. but have plateaued. Still need to lose about 50 more. 

I've not been involved with any support group of any kind. I'm your typical Type A always in control and hate to ask for help kinda girl. That's something I'm going to have to learn to change. I recognize that I really need to connect to folks who have been down this road and know the terrain so to speak. 

Socially speaking, I'm in a long term relationship with a wonderful woman. 25th anniversary recently celebrated. Guess she's gonna let me stay :-). She's stuck with me through thick and thin. Literally, through thick and thin. 

I've been trying to find a "search the forum" feature so I can see if questions have already been asked before posting them. If any of could give me some guidance on that I would appreciate it. 

Hi Casey, Welcome!!! 

Congratulations on your loss and continuing success. This is an amazing group and I'm glad you came here and hope you'll stay.

I'm quite the type A, do it myself, kind of girl too. Interestingly, I have found tremendous support by being of support. I don't know much about finding out how questions were answered in the past but seriously, I would just jump in with whatever you want to know... because 1) the answers may be different because we've grown and learned and 2) there may be different people here.

So as far as I'm concerned, ask away. I'll bet you find many of us jumping in with a variety of opinions.

This forum tends to be far more of a party than a classroom... but we get the jobs done.

Again... welcome!

 Thanks for your welcome. 
I'll get right to the point. I was trying to search the site for information on increased alcohol cravings post surgery. Just something I've noticed about myself. Not a problem yet but have enough self awareness to realize it's got the potential to be if I allow it. I've always loved a good party but more and more I catch myself just craving the buzz. Anyone here experiencing that? 
(Also, I promise, I'm not a total loser despite how this sounds.)

There is newer research on addiction interaction disorder in which we go from one to another, actually because of the neural pathways in the brain. It may be listed in the next DSM which means insurance will have to cover it. But the reality is once we are compulsive about one thing--eating--we are at risk for all other "more" behaviors, whether or not it is alcohol, sex, exercise, spending, gambling, etc. The treatment for all addictions, in part, is developing a toolbox of self-soothing behaviors. These could be reading, walking, meditating, moderate exercise, hobbies, plus many more--kind of whatever is soothing to you.

As a therapist who specialized in this area and a bandster, I would encourage you to deal with this now before it gets worse, either through therapy or reading or whatever way you learn the best.

Welcome to the board!

Connie 

Welcome! I have found this to be the best place on OH!!! Even if you just want to vent, ***** complain about your neighbor (lol) ...we'll listen! 

Everyone here is supportive

Welcome sleeve sister!

If you can figure out how to search, I'm sure you will find a lot of posts about cross addictions. It is a common problem after weight loss surgery. Can't abuse the food, so move to alcohol, or shopping, or gambling etc.

Don't have personal experience, but I know there is information out there!

Blessings, and, don't stay a stranger ok!

Welcome to the "family" in more ways than one!

 Thanks to all who have taken the time to reply. I've figured out the search feature and have been doing some reading. Seems I'm not alone. 

Appreciate you all welcoming me. Hope in the future to have something useful to add to the conversation.