Question:
Anyone depressed now since WLS?

I've had many complications since my surgery on 4/5/02 and I'm slipping into depression. I'm wondering if some of my depression is caused by not being able to be comforted by my fried (food) anymore. Anyone's thoughts are welcome. Thanks.    — Christine L. (posted on October 19, 2002)

October 19, 2002
I am only 4 weeks post op but I have already been through one round of depression and I expect more. This is such a tough surgery to go through. If you had complications it had to be a lot worse than mine and mine was bad enough. Then there is the shock to your body and the experience of not being able to eat what and how you are use to eating. The comfort foods? Heck yes I would say that would play a big part of it. We have to focus on what we can do and what we can have and keep sight of the future. I am so sorry you are depressed but I understand completely! Hang in there. Thousands have gone before you and reached their dreams. There is no reason why you can't also. It just comes harder for some of us!
   — Pam G.

October 19, 2002
I agree with Pam, this surgery alone is known to set off depression. Add to that the difficulties you've experienced, it is understandable that you are experiencing depression. You don't mention what symptoms you are experiencing, so I would suggest you consider the following: How long have you been feeling depressed? Have you lost interest in doing things that you normally enjoy? Are you sleeping more or sleeping less (insomnia)? Do you cry frequently? Do you feel emotional, sad, anxious, guilty, angry, or have mood swings? Do you experience lack of energy, loss of sexual desire, withdrawal from others, worrying, neglect of responsibilities, frequent self-criticism, impaired memory and concentration, or have thoughts of death and suicide? A yes to even five or six of these symptoms (each question contains a number of symptoms and you don't have to answer yes to all the sympotoms in any single question, just to five or six total) is an inidcation that you should get yourself checked by your physician, particularly if you have been experiencing these symptoms for more than two weeks. At the very least, your doctor can help you rule out any organic origin for the depression, and if there is none, then perhaps she can put you on an anti-depressant to stabalize your mood while you are making this transition from old to new. Take care of yourself, and keep talking to those around you. Depression has a tendacy to isolate us, which compounds the depression. Many blessings to you and I pray that you will find relief and peace soon. Robin
   — rebalspirit

October 19, 2002
Christine, After reading your profile I am in awe that you can even get up & out of bed each day! I think that perhaps your depression issues stem more from your struggles with constant & continuoua pain. Anyone who has to deal with chronic pain is a HIGH risk for developing depression. Please see your doc and address this ASAP. Hang in there!!!!!!
   — Heather N.

October 19, 2002
I also read your profile and have to say that I am amazed you keep going back to work so quickly. If i were you with all your surgeries and all the aneasthetic in you (it lingers for weeks)I think I would be weak as a kitten. I am 10 weeks post-op and still have times I feel weak! I have struggled with depression too! Do not underestimate the hell you have been through and please be kind to yourself!
   — chealsea L.

October 20, 2002
Thank you so much for posting your responses to this question. I've been taking Lexapro for a few weeks now for the depression and have been feeling only a little better. It's nice to be recognized for the strength I've shown by continuing to get out of bed everyday despite my problems. The people around me don't really seem to have any appreciation for how hard it's been for me.
   — Christine L.

March 19, 2009
Yes, I have been depressed and have attributed it to the fact that I take Wellbutrin HCL instead of the Wellbutrin SR. I am considering seeing a counselor.
   — Beamer