Question:
Psych Eval...

To anyone who has had a psych eval...I found out I need to have one. Will they ask if anything major has happened in my life lately? My 5-yr-old daughter died a few months ago, and I've been in therapy for that. Will that affect my psych eval? I have been working to get wls long, long before she died, so its not like a recent, rash decision. I'm worried that they'll find me unfit at this time??? (I feel more ready than ever; her death made me realize how fragile life is, and I want to live it as fully as I can). Thoughts???    — Linda J. (posted on August 5, 2000)

August 5, 2000
My sincere condolences to you and your family for your loss. I believe that you should simply tell your psych eval person exactly wheat you have told us. "her death made me realize how fragile life is, and I want to live it as fully as I can" That's a very powerful statement. It speaks to your motivation, and coupled witht he fact that you sought the WLS long before your daughter's death, there shouldn't be an issue, in my thinking. I wish you the very best. [email protected].
   — lisadiehl

August 5, 2000
Linda, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. WLS should only be done by you for you. If you have thought this through carefully and weighed the risks and possible benefits for yourself, then it should not impact your WLS in my opinion. I can see where the grieving process and WLS might collide, but you are the only person on earth who knows how you feel. Godspeed in your recovery processes and best of luck to you. Jeff Parmley
   — jeff P.

August 5, 2000
Please accept my condolences on your loss. I recently had my evaluation done, and was approved, no problem. Here is what the psychologist wrote: "To Whom it May Concern: _____________ is not suffering from any mental or emtional disorders which would be detrimental to the RNY Gastric-Bypass. ______________ weight problems have made a negative impact on her life for many years. _____________ is prepared for the surgery and is aware that the recovery may be difficult. She maintains a positive attitude about the surgery and its outcomes." Best of luck to you, Linda. I hope this helps.
   — Jeannet

August 5, 2000
Dearest Linda, I am so sorry about your daughter. God Bless and Comfort you at this time. I don't have information regarding the psych evaluation, but you convinced me you are ready :) I pray that you have a successful surgery and are Comforted by the Holy Spirit at this time in HIS name, God Bless you!!! Love, Tina ([email protected]
   — Tina C.

August 5, 2000
Hi, I went to for my "shrink test" on Monday. They did ask of I was stressed, and I told them about my family life, which isn't the great right now. But I'm sure that if you explain that you are getting better through therepy (I am so sorry to hear about your daughter. We lost a son many years ago), everything should be alright. Good luck and God Bless you and your family. Diana
   — Diana T.

August 6, 2000
Dear Linda, I am sorry that you have experienced such a painful loss. Like you I have lost someone I loved dearly and am hoping to have wls soon. As a retired grief therapist I think there are some things to consider before you put your body through surgery. Grief is experienced in our bodies, hearts and emotions. Grief is very stressful and can drain our reserves. Grieving is a time to be gentle and patient with ourselves allowing ourselves to heal as we would if we had a serious illness or surgery. Wls will require us to experience additional losses (change of lifestyle and favorite foods) and pain (post op). I think having wls 12 or 18 months after such a major loss would be asking alot of anyone. It is ok and wise to take time out to allow your broken heart to heal.I hope that you will discuss this with your therapist and make a decision that is best for you. You will know when the time is right. When you have your psych eval done they may encourage you to wait, not because you are unfit but because you are human and humans need to grieve for their children. My best wishes are with you. Please take care and be as gentle and loving with yourself as you were with your child. Peace, Kathy
   — kathleen S.