Support Group Needed

I'm struggling.

I'm 10  months out, 4 pounds from goal.  I did a lot of research before having wls but in no way was I prepared for the emotional part of this journey.  Up until now, I've tried to handle it on my own....because thats the way I've always done things.  But I'm realizing it's not working for me.  I feel myself slipping into old habits, I'm not taking care of myself the way I should, I'm completely overwhelmed sometimes and I hear my demons screaming even louder now that I can't quiet them with food.

I'm smart enough to know that I can't do this one on my own and it's time to ask for help. 

I thought I'd start by going to a support group but I'm not sure if there is one in my area. (I live in Hendersonville and work in Gallatin)  I know there are plenty in the downtown area but being a single mom of 2 who works full time, I need something close if I'm going to stick to it long term.

Anyone know of a group close to Hendersonville?  If so, when and where does it meet. 

 There used to be a Saturday support group at the Hendersonville hospital, but I haven't been in so long I'm not sure if it's still going, I believe it was associated with Centennial and meets on the 3rd Saturday of every month. I hope it's better than the one session I went to, as it was not structured enough or any planning of topics to discuss, but I know at the time the support group leader was also going through some personal issues.  Other than that I'm not aware of one. If you find there is not still a support group there, we can always start one. Me and my wife currently run a support group at Vanderbilt and wouldn't be opposed to starting another one in Hendersonville if we could get enough people to come. So if you don't find one, please let me know, we can start one and build the attendance as we go.

As well, I'd recommend seeing a therapist or counselor, we all have mind problems that got us fat and the surgery doesn't fix them. Ignoring them and not fixing them will only lead us back to where we started. It seems there is too much of a stigma with seeing a therapist that there shouldn't be. I currently see one myself and I'm glad I have, it helps alot and it's not uncommon with all the hormones that are held in the fat we're now burning to need outside help.  Personally I've had some extreme mood swings that I didn't have before surgery and they've been helped greatly with medicine. Eventually when things settle down I'll be able to get off that medicine, but for now it helps my wife from wanting to kill me 

Good luck and I hope you find a good support group and the help you need.

While I'm not sure about "official" groups, I do know that this board can help somewhat.  I also know the lunch bunch meets in Hendersonville on occassion.  While these would never replace "true" support groups, they have helped me  (and others I think) a lot.  Erika

We do have a group in Hendersonville, the group has a new leader. The group just met last Saturday. Here are the details:
Sumner Co Group Time: 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Location: Hendersonville Hospital Community Room Moderator: Joe Vest (615)654-4872 [email protected]

I would encourage you to come Monday night to the group led by Dr. Janice Livengood at the center. The psychologist led groups are truly worth the trip to Nashville. This past Monday night the presentation was on How do I deal with my feelings now that I can no longer numb them with food?

A full calendar of our 40 groups per month is on our website: click here!

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