Beyond the Scale: How to Prioritize Mental Health After Weight Loss Surgery
The numbers on the scale are not the only thing that changes after you have weight loss surgery.
You’ve conquered the bariatric surgery process, tackled coming to terms with your new diet and nutritional changes, and have learned to embrace (or at least tolerate) exercise.
Now, it’s time to conquer the final frontier…the changes in your mental health.
How do you truly and fully embrace this new life?
key takeaways
For centuries, humans have treated mental health issues as if they were secondary to any sort of physical ones
We’ve put very little energy or resources into prioritizing a person’s mental health conditions and have seen any sort of mental health challenges as a “weakness of character” or one
that should be dealt with differently than a physical need.
But mental health has now become a higher priority than ever before and it is seen as an integral part of a person’s overall well-being.
For the person who has recently undergone bariatric surgery, this is more true than ever before.
Navigating Mental Health Challenges
Embarking on a weight loss journey, especially through bariatric surgery, can introduce a range of psychological challenges that deserve thoughtful consideration.
This realization has gained popularity and momentum in recent years, as health professionals have continued to see a rise in the desire for weight loss surgery and understand more than before about the mental health challenges that bariatric patients may face.
According to an article published in the National Library of Medicine, not only is it important to think about the mental health of bariatric surgery patients, it’s actually a growing concern
“Bariatric surgery is not a hit-and-run technical operation like many other surgical procedures,” the article states. “Rather, it is a “voyage” affecting patients’ lives for years.”
The reasons for this are quickly becoming more clear:
Post bariatric surgery patients experience major changes in everything from their physical body and lifestyle choices to their social interactions and their overall mindset…about themself as well as their environment. These are some of the biggest areas where
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Physical Body Changes:
• Anyone who has gone through a gastric bypass surgery or another type of weight loss surgery is going to experience some significant physical transformations.
• While this is a welcome and desired result of undergoing bariatric surgery, it can also lead to such rapid changes that it’s important to make sure your mental health is also being considered.
• From big changes in body shape to loose skin and adjustments to your physical appearance, making sure you are mentally coping with these alterations is important, as they may trigger complex emotions, including body image concerns and self-perception issues.
Social Interactions:
• The weight loss journey often brings about shifts in social dynamics.
• Individuals may encounter varying reactions from friends, family, and acquaintances. While most people (hopefully) are going to be super supportive of your journey, some may act in ways that are not so positive. You may even be questioned as to why you did it or whether or not you are going to be “the same” as before.
• These kinds of personal interactions can take a real toll on your mental health and make you doubt your decisions. This is another reason why working with a mental health professional and/or a well-meaning support group is highly imperative to your long-term success.
Mindset Shifts:
• Beyond the physical and lifestyle aspects, bariatric surgery prompts profound shifts in mindset.
• Patients may experience newfound confidence, improved self-esteem, and a sense of empowerment.
• On the other hand, many patients will experience less-than-positive thoughts about themself.
• They may be upset over having struggled with a binge eating disorder, not addressing the psychiatric disorders that contributed to their weight gain, or may even be upset that they had lived with a low quality of life much longer than necessary.
• Living with regrets is never going to be good for your mental health. Learning to accept them and work through them is going to give you the freedom to move forward and embrace the new life you’ve chosen to create.
How to Find the Mental Health Support You Need
Navigating the mental health aspects of the post-bariatric surgery journey is crucial for any post-bariatric patient’s long-term well-being.
Unfortunately, this can sometimes be much more challenging than getting the necessary support for your nutritional needs and fitness support.
But finding the right support is something you need to prioritize. The right mental health support is going to significantly impact your ability to cope with challenges and embrace positive changes.
Here are some key strategies to help you find the mental health support you need:
Professional Guidance:
Seek assistance from mental health professionals experienced in following bariatric surgery patients after their procedure is over.
Support Groups:
Spend time figuring out how to connect with post-bariatric surgery support groups.
weight loss surgery.
Online Resources:
Explore reputable online resources dedicated to mental health after bariatric surgery.
Community Engagement:
Engage with your local community and healthcare providers.
Family and Friends:
Foster open communication with your close circle. Even if your family and friends don’t totally get what you’re going through, give them a chance to walk this journey with you.
PRICING & COSTS
Explore surgery expenses and pricing details to better understand the associated costs for your medical procedure.
How Do I Maintain My Mental Health After My Surgery?
Certainly, maintaining good mental health after bariatric surgery is essential for overall well-being. Here are strategies to support mental health on the post-surgery journey:
Professional Counseling: Consider ongoing counseling or therapy with a mental health professional experienced in post-bariatric care. They can help address emotional challenges, body image issues, and lifestyle adjustments.
Join Support Groups: Participate in local or online support groups for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery. Connecting with others facing similar challenges fosters a sense of community and provides valuable insights.
Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, into your daily routine. These practices can help manage stress, and anxiety, and promote emotional well-being.
Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, as exercise is not only beneficial for physical health but also has positive effects on mental well-being. Choose activities you enjoy to make it a sustainable part of your lifestyle.
Balanced Nutrition: Follow a balanced and nutritious diet to support both physical and mental health. Nutrient-rich foods contribute to overall well-being and can positively impact mood and energy levels.
Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable and realistic goals for your post-surgery journey. Celebrate small victories, and recognize progress to maintain a positive mindset.
Express Emotions: Communicate openly with friends, family, or a mental health professional about your emotions. Sharing your experiences and feelings can provide relief and support.
Stay Connected: Maintain social connections with friends and family. Positive relationships can provide emotional support and contribute to a sense of belonging.
Educate Yourself: Continuously educate yourself about post-bariatric mental health. Stay informed about potential challenges, coping strategies, and success stories to navigate your journey with awareness.
Self-Care Practices: Prioritize self-care by engaging in activities you enjoy. Whether it’s reading, hobbies, or relaxation techniques, dedicating time to yourself enhances mental well-being.
Remember that mental health is a dynamic and individual aspect of your post-bariatric journey. Adopting a holistic approach and seeking support when needed can contribute to sustained mental well-being.
Be Your Best Support System: Red Flags to Look for Regarding Your Post Surgery Mental Health
While mental health experiences can vary among individuals after bariatric surgery, it’s crucial to be aware of potential red flags that may indicate challenges in this aspect. Even if you are working with a trained professional, it’s a good idea to have a clear understanding of certain red flags that could indicate that your mental health needs are not being prioritized. One aspect that can contribute to mental health challenges is body image concerns, especially if considering Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss Mexico to address excess skin or reshape certain areas after significant weight loss.
If you find yourself beginning to experience any of these red flags post bariatric surgery, you will want to seek support from a mental health professional and spend some time getting a psychological evaluation to determine if your mental health is not getting addressed properly.
Early intervention when mental health triggers arise can significantly contribute to addressing mental health challenges and promote overall well-being for years after your weight loss surgery is over.
Remember…there is no shame in taking care of your mental health. Make it a priority and you will keep seeing the results you’ve worked hard to achieve.
Mexico Weight loss Surgery Center: Helping You Become a Whole You
Prioritizing your mental health after bariatric surgery is going to be an integral part of your holistic well-being journey.
And Mexico Weightloss Surgery Center wants to walk with you every step of the way.
Recognizing and addressing mental health challenges can contribute to long-term success and a fulfilling life post-surgery.
If you’re considering bariatric surgery and are looking for a center that values your total health—physical, emotional, and mental—consider reaching out to Mexico Weightloss Surgery Center.
With a commitment to comprehensive care, our experienced team is dedicated to supporting you on every aspect of your transformative journey.
Embrace the opportunity for a healthier and happier life and take the first step toward total well-being. Have your weight loss surgery in Mexico and contact Mexico Weightloss Surgery Center today for a total health plan for your next life chapter.
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