Question:
post op depression statistics
I am about 3 months post op and have recently learned that post op WLS patients have an incredibly high rate of mood swings and depression. This really scares me - and with all the research I did pre op I never encountered anything about this. Frankly, it scares the hell out of me! I have found myself to be more sensitive than ever lately which worries me. I don't want to be a basket case!!! Is there any place on this site that posts clear information on the matter? — zimra (posted on December 18, 2008)
December 18, 2008
Hi, I had it, too. To some extent, I think it's a normal reaction!! Food is
so basic - it's like being in mourning. My surgery was 9/11/08 and I
continue to have odd psych reactions, but these are getting better. Things
*change* with this surgery - and not only physically!! I don't know what
advice to give you ... I have a therapist who is very supportive of me,
although I don't think she really understands food issues very well. If I
were you, I would maybe talk to someone - a counselor, preferably in weight
& eating disorders - but just someone capable who you feel you can
relate to. It helps to talk about these things [which are to be expected]
and to have someone support you. Also, support groups can be good, although
I've discovered they're hard to find in my area [CT]. Perhaps ask your
local mental health center or hospital. Try not to worry about things too
much - I know what you're going through. Definitely talk to an in-person
counselor, though, would be my suggestion. All the best, Barbara
— oakroom
December 18, 2008
— Christine Gibson
December 18, 2008
I think it is a little about losing your identity. The first time I lost a
lot of weight I didn't recognize myself in the mirror or window reflection.
I was different enough that when my husband and I attended a funeral, the
townspeople who had not seen me for 6 months thought my husband was with
another woman. I really resented compliments because the flip side of them
was that before I lost weight I was (not good).
I since found out that if one is making major changes as we do, we probably
would do well to get a little counseling. Good Luck.
— catcat
December 18, 2008
Well this answers a question for me. I have been acting CRAZY recently!
My friends and co workers have commented on it. I have severe mood swings
now.... Some days I am sitting here and I just want to cry. I thought this
would help me with my confidence, and it has in some areas, but it has also
made me increasingly sensitive in others. Some nights I lie in bed and my
mind just spins and spins all night long! The information that others have
provided, who have answered this question, is very helpful.
— B. Jones
December 18, 2008
Yeah, it happens, it's perfectly normal and you can get through it. Be
honest (and gentle) with your feelings, and ask for support. This is a
HUGE change you're making, it takes time, sweat and work to make the change
fully and completely and it is SO WORTH IT. Come here and post, you'll get
lots of support on the message boards, and hang in there, it gets better
from here.
— Shirley D.
December 18, 2008
I just have to add my experience here. I am 2 years and 4 mos post op.
When this happened to me my surgeon and my PCP said the same things.
Estrogen. Fat cells harbor alot of estrogen, and when we lose weight all
that estrogen is released into the body. creating a "PMS"
effect. I was in full blown menopause when I had the WLS after losing 85
lbs my periods started back, and continued like clockwork for at more than
a year. NOw I am menopausal again. No more PMS, but other things normally
related to menopause caused me to be moody and depressed again. I think I
have over come that now, hopefully. The way it was explained to me made
alot of sense. Of course all the comments made here are major factors too.
I am here to say, that it does pass just like the nausea, vomiting,
dumping does at some point. Hang in there fellow loser, you will be
feeling better. This too shall pass as they say. :) Clearly you are
adventurous and dedicated or you would not have committed to what you
ultimately have, WLS. good luck and I do hope this passes for you soon.
deb
— dessary316
December 18, 2008
Short answer: your body harbors your hormones in your fat cells. when you
lose weight rapidly they are released back into your body - floating around
- causing all sorts of mischief. The good news is - it gets better with
time. I am coming up on 2 years and have been there, done that. I got over
the depression and mood swings after WLS. Recently, been having a streak of
bad luck - dumb general life stuff - and went on prozac (through my PCP) to
help me through it. I went on Prozac for a few months after my parents
retired and moved out of state - I lost my best friend (so I thought) - my
mom. And went on it again for a few months after my Grandma passed away. If
you feel out of control and are not seeing a decrease in your depression -
talk to your PCP or a therapist to talk about your issues. I have been back
on it for going on 2 months and feel in control of my emotions again. Your
body is releasing your hormones back into your body - again - floating
around causing all sorts of issues. It's normal, but hits some people
harder than others. My step sister had WLS (RNY) and had very bad
hybernation syndrome and then depression. Her PCP prescribed something to
help her get through her transition. There is no shame in asking for help.
Good luck and welcome to the loser's bench. I have lost over 145lbs - was
wearing a size 26/28 before surgery and a 20/22 top. To date, I am wearing
a size 4 and a small or extra small top. As you lose more and more weight
you will also deal with indentifying with your new body, self, etc.
Again... good luck. Your OH family understands what you are going through -
feel free to ask questions often when you are not sure. My email is
[email protected] if you want to ask anything. I am an open book.
— jammerz
December 18, 2008
Wow in looking at the answers that you have received I guess I am one of
the lucky ones. I have had none of that. actually just the opposite every
day I feel beeter and better about how I feel look and act. I guess All I
can offer is just always try to remember from where you came and how good
(even on the tough days) your life is getting. Keep your head up and keep
doing well you can do this we are all here for you.
— jeffinMI
December 19, 2008
Good for you for having this surgery, I had mine in July of 2005 over 3
years out and I can tell you one thing about this subject. I suffered
Severe Depression, Post Tramatic Stress Disorder, and Severe Panic Attacks
and my problems with the severe depression has substantially reduced since
having the surgery. Do not be scared hon. You will love yourself after. I
have found out so much about myself since the surgery. I know I still
suffer from depressioin but mine is much, much, better. My whole outlook on
life has changed also. I getting ready to go back to college for a 4 year
degree in Criminal Justice Administration. You cannot believe everything
you read or hear. I lost a whopping 130 pounds from weight loss surgery. I
feel like I have been liberated! Enough said. Good luck to you and my
prayers are with you. I hope this has given you some insight. Do NOT BE
AFRAID! There is nothing to fear but fear itself!
— trishhooper
December 19, 2008
Zimra, just as all the other posts, please find a therapist. I had PTSD and
depression prior to the surgery, so I can't say I really felt any different
mentally once I began to loose weight except positive self esteem and
confidence. If you have been obese from childhood I think the drastic
weight loss affects WL patients differently. Finding a therapist or
Psychiatrist is similiar to dating, in that you need to find a comfortable
match; therefore,the first one you choose may not be the "right
fit" for you. Don't ignore this, just accept it as a change in your
body and mind and one that needs to be addressed so you can move forward
with your life in a positive manner. Good luck and keep up the great
success. Cheryle Griffin,NC
— amistique569
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