Question:
I have an appt. for a psych eval this week. I'm nervous, does anyone know what they

are looking for in a psych eval? This is the only test my surgeon needs and so much is weighing on this.    — kari L. (posted on September 16, 2003)

September 16, 2003
I had my psch eval already. The doctor just asked me about the surgery just to prepare you and talked about insurance. I also took a personality test.
   — Sunshine J.

September 16, 2003
Only test? No GB ultrasound? Sleep study? Bloodwork? PCP clearance? <P> All of these are important ands saave lives.
   — bob-haller

September 16, 2003
When I had my evaluation I was asked alot of questions about my family,why I wanted the surgery and if I was sure if I could handle the lifestyle change,she wanted to know if I had a support system and If my family supported my decision to have RNY surgery,and what my exspectations were. It is really nothing to worry about they just want to make sure you know what you are getting into.
   — Cathy G.

September 16, 2003
When my sister had her psych. eval, they asked her to describe in her own words what the surgeon would be doing to her during the operation. Sounds like a simple question, but an important one. Give a clear, detailed answer so the psych. will know you have done your homework and understand what's going on. Good luck.
   — Carly H.

September 16, 2003
As I always respond to questions like this - DO NOT TELL THE PSYCH TOO MUCH, i.e., if you've been abused/raped/depressed/unlucky in love/broke/traumatized by high school...whatever. I only say this because (in my eagerness to be honest) "failed" my initial psych evaluation and had to scramble for a more WLS friendly therapist. There are many reasons why we could become MO, but no good reason to be denied the surgery (psychologically at least) unless you have a serious mental illness. I mean I was extrememly depressed 100lbs ago - because of my weight! So now that I am a normal size, I have my ups and downs, but not that bone crushing depression I once suffered. Good luck to you!
   — rebeccamayhew

September 16, 2003
Don't stress over this, just be yourself. I had mine and I just talked about me, just gave the facts. They just want to know if you are prepared for the changes you will be facing. Remember this surgery is a life changing one.
   — Helen M.

September 17, 2003
First and foremost the doc wants to make sure you are competent to make the decision to have this surgery. Do you understand the life style change, what is your support system like, etc. They may give you a personality (written) test - just be honest, don't sweat over your answers. Many MO's have some degree of depression which is NORMAL. They may even recommend a depressant and some therapy to help support you through your life changing surgery - and even that won't disqualify you. You'd probably have to already be in a straight jacket, drooling on yourself and calling the doc daddy to get yourself disqualified. (lol) Or barking out loud at people might get you disqualified. (lol) Try to relax and take a deep breath - it'll be over with before you know it. HUGS, HUGS, and more HUGS!
   — Deborah F.