Question:
Do all doctors require a psych evaluation?

Mine has not mentioned it, however, I go for my final appointment with him next week to set a surgery date and go over my pre-op test results. Just wondering if I need to prepare for another appointment which will push my date out a little further! Thanks.    — Cheryl T. (posted on September 2, 2002)

September 2, 2002
Mine didn't (Dr. Welker). He asked me a huge "laundry list" of questions, including some which addressed psych issues, at my initial consultation. Some of the literature from his office that I first received said that attending a support group was required, but that wasn't mentioned at appointment at all...
   — Denise M.

September 2, 2002
IMHO IT SHOULD BE REQUIRED! Just to weed out those who are likely to have trouble post op. Better to address those issues pre op than post op when the person is totally stressed by surgery and everything else. They surgery can kill those who abuse alcohol. Better to get them in treatment in advance. WLS affects our bodies but also our minds. Its imporetant to be prepared for the changes. I am glad my surgeon requires a psych consult! ALSO EVERYONE should attend support group meetings! They truly help so much both pre op and post op.
   — bob-haller

September 3, 2002
I totally agree with you Bob...EVERYONE should have a pysch evaluation...so many of us are emotional eaters and have other issues and stresses that add to out weight problems. Many people are not mature enough nor are they emotionally ready to take on this surgery. That is why the psych eval is needed. Plus, support groups are SO IMPORTANT! I firmly believe it is the support you receive from your family and others who have had this surgery that dictate whether you succeed or fail at this TOOL we have been given. Heather (2 wks post-op, down 26lbs)
   — heathercross