Question:
will i be depressed after my surgery?

   — Michael H. (posted on March 8, 2002)

March 8, 2002
depression is an individual thing. I am 2 weeks post op and I am mourning food a little bit when I see others eat...but it is not that bad. I expected that to happen before I went into surgery. Food was one of my best friends. I have had a couple of crying spells post surgery...those related to my frustration of having to go slow in recouperating. I am so use to going 100 miles an hour with everything I do and not having to depend on others. But every positive thing that happens...makes those blue moments fade...like 27 lbs gone in 2 weeks and my Blood pressure being 127/74 this morning. Just remember we are human and we are suppose to feel happy and sad sometimes. Best of luck to you!
   — SARose61

March 8, 2002
How can anyone answer this? Except maybe miss cleo and the psychic hotline. I don't mean to be cruel, but how can anyone predict if you'll be depressed or not? Some people have some food mourning period where they miss all they can eat, some people have reactions to the anesthesia (as I did) and some people don't have a second's depression. I'm afraid the only way to find out if you will be depressed after surgery is have the surgery and then see if you get depressed. Good luck
   — Becky K.

March 8, 2002
Are you depressed now? Seek pre and post-op counseling if this is a major concern for you...supposedly, WLS shouldn't be performed on people who are severly, clinically depressed because of the aftercare required...I dunno. Good luck though...
   — rebeccamayhew

March 8, 2002
I agree that noone can answer this question for you. I am 2 months post op, and have not been depressed. Granted there are times when I'm not in the best of moods, but nothing more significant than that (and I think we all have those days). If anything, I am happier. I exercize regularly, I am making good on my committment to a healthier lifestyle, and am on track with my life. I missed some foods for a little while, but nothing severe. And if I need some chocolate I have a sugar-free pudding pop- yummy! Keeps me satisfied with my 'diet'. But some people don't cope as well with the stress of surgery. If you have concerns, you should speak to a professional. Every person reacts differently to changes, and this is a big one. Try to have a positive attitude!! Good Luck! :)
   — Angela B.

March 8, 2002
I wasn't depressed before surgery and still am not after surgery. I know people who are depressed before and after surgery. I was told that by a bariatric nurse "Your bluest days will be your biggest weight loss days" This has held true for me the whole 2 years. When I am down a bit, I'll check the scale and sure enough...pounds gone!
   — ZZ S.

March 8, 2002
I've had several surgeries and several major illnesses requiring hospitalization, and was depressed for a short time after each one. I think it has to do with such things as anethesia and heavy medications in addition to the fact that the body feels it has been traumatized. So, I suppose my answer is that yes, you might be depressed after surgery. If it is temporary and of short duration you might attribute it to what I mentioned above. If it becomes serious or lasts more than a short time, or if you just feel terribly concerned about it be sure to talk to your doctor.
   — Bobbie B.