Question:
Now that I am not as depressed

Now that I am not as depressed as I have been for what 15 years or so , I notice I am eating less... loosing weight [ heck I may have to put some back on just to lose the 10% to qualify] I attribute less depression to zoloft, wellbutrin and a good therapist. My psych feels that my obesity is a result of depression [comfort food] fear of intimacy etc. and she is right. However I still want the surgery because I am still 100 or so overweight. She thinks I can now 'handle' the issues that caused depression etc. and then the weight will drop off. I don't know about that - but the seed is planted in my head and I can't stop thinking maybe she is right... so my question ... musings are for those who have been depressed and on meds - did that help in weight loss - to the point where you thought you could continue to lose without the surgery ? I still want the surgery I just want to explore everything else first - I have tried several diets, phen fen and exercise.. still a 'thick gal'    — Lynn W. (posted on December 25, 2001)

December 25, 2001
IF this really worked would we all be getting together discussing surgery? Unfortunately it doesnt or zoloft and the others would be marketed as weight loss drugs, making the drug companies filthy rich. Your therapist obviously isnt morbidly obese and thus cant really understand our problem. Most likely isnt up to date on current surgeries either. Go ahead with surgery and watch her be thrilled with your success. She will probably suggest surgery for others once she watches your transformation. Now I suffered with depression pre op that left thank goodness once the weight started dropping. This happen often and the psycologist said its because of our bad body self image. Do whats best for YOU, and ignore the naysayers. I had a pulmonologist tell me surgery was a REALLY BAD idea, and now that I have lost 107 pounds he is going to see me again, his advice could of killed me....
   — bob-haller

December 25, 2001
Lynn- I understand completely why you are questioning. I have been on anti-depressents for over a year now (celexa). The question is that although you are able to loose some weight after taking medication, is this really the underlying cause of the depression? I fully plan on taking my med after surgery because it is due to a chemical imbalance. Of course being overweight is depressing, but you can\'t fight your body. Just like you can\'t fight genetics for making you overweight. It\'s possible that the meds are causing a decreased appetite, but if you meet the qualifications of surgery, don\'t let that change your mind. It is important to explore all options, but at this point, I\'m sure you have done that. You have to make the best decision for yourself. I think people should keep depression solutions and obesity solutions seperate (treat them as such). Good luck!
   — [Anonymous]

December 25, 2001
I have been on prozac for about nine years on and off. I had the surgery a little over a year ago. I stopped taking it a few months ago. Well I went back on it because my wife and kids asked me too. Seems that when I am off it I get kinda of mean and snappy. And I was noticing the same thing myself. I had thought that my wieght had stabalized but after the prozac taking effect I have begun losing wieght again and I am able to deal with food a bit better now. So just because you have lost a few pounds it may not continue. I myself lost 20 between the time I got this started and surgery.
   — [Anonymous]

December 25, 2001
bob...these parallels in our lives have got to stop!!! either that or we will have to get together in person & become friends. lol. the week before my surgery my pulmonologist was dead set against me having it. thank god i didnt have to rely on his approval to get it done. in fact, he was the ONLY one of my 5 drs that was not supportive. in response to the question...i have been diagnosed with chronic major depression & have been on medication for 3 years now. i have not been anywhere near as happy in those 3 years as i have been in the past 8 days. my phone contacts tell me...u sound WONDERFUL!!! my up close & personal friends tell me...i havent seen u look this good in AGES!! u look sooooo happy!!! and i am! it took me 50 years but i have finally taken control of my life instead of letting my life control me. if u feel that this is what u need to do FOR U, then i say GO FOR IT!!!
   — sheryl titone

December 26, 2001
Hello Lynn, the Psychiatrist I saw for my evaluation recently had open RNY and is doing great!
   — Laurie W.