Why Psychological Readiness Matters Before Weight Loss Surgery

While weight loss surgery can be an important component of improved health, the surgery itself doesn’t make the difference. Patients should also be ready for psychological and lifestyle changes due to surgery. Patients will be more knowledgeable to make decisions, and understanding these changes can assist with transitioning. Psychological readiness also involves preparing patients for what is to come (e.g. the new eating pattern) and setting expectations and practising with new coping strategies after surgery.

Why Mental Health Is Part of Surgery Preparation

Although the digestive system is altered by bariatric surgery, there are also a number of lifestyle changes, dietary habits and food reactions that will need to change following the procedure to ensure that the patient recovers successfully. A psychological assessment can determine any factors that could impact the experience post-surgery, such as an emotional eating disorder, inadequately treated anxiety and/or depression, poor stress management, or unrealistic expectations of weight loss.

This assessment is not a test that patients must pass, and it is not meant to stop somebody from undergoing surgery. It is used to identify the needs of each patient and what guidance/support could be beneficial before and after the procedure. Having access to a full care team at the best bariatric surgery centers, such as a psychologist, dietitian, and other specialists to offer guidance along the weight loss journey, can also be beneficial to patients.

Signs You Are Psychologically Ready

However, a patient that is psychologically ready is not going to be nervous, stressed or uncertain at any point. They are aware of the time and effort that is required, and are willing to put in the effort to carry out the changes necessary following surgery. People who are mentally ready tend to:

• Be aware that surgery is a tool that can be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications.
• Be willing to eat the right way and slowly start eating healthier.
• Be able to handle emotions/stress without eating.
• Are ready for additional visits and resources of support.

It is preferable to learn these before surgery so that patients will be able to adjust to postoperative living in comfort and know what to expect in their recovery process.

What if Emotional Readiness is Not Achieved?

There are numerous adjustments to make following your weight loss surgery, and if you’re not emotionally ready, you could struggle adjusting. Rewiring your body’s eating habits, how you look and how you live may result in some difficult adjustments. For instance, frustration can set in when patients aren’t losing as much as they’d hoped or when they continue to fall back into the same types of disordered eating. Some might require extra support with stress, anxiety and/or their relationship with food. The use of these discussions before surgery allows patients to work out effective coping mechanisms, determine reasonable expectations and prepare themselves for what life will look like after surgery.

Building a Strong Foundation for Long-Term Success

One of the most important aspects of preparing for weight loss surgery is to prepare the mind. The counselling, nutrition education, and care team can assist the patient in understanding the changes in the patient and assist them in making decisions throughout the process. Although surgery should be successful, getting ready with some lifestyle changes (changing your diet to a healthier one, learning to better manage stress, etc.) can make it easier when it comes time for surgery. Patients can make these changes that help them form practices to promote health for years to come following their procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. If I have anxiety or depression, can I have a weight loss surgery?

Yes. If you suffer from anxiety or depression, you don’t automatically have to turn your back on weight loss surgery. With proper mental health management and medical/psychological support, many patients are able to have a positive outcome from bariatric surgery.

2. Does mental preparation have an impact on the effectiveness of weight loss?

Psychological preparation assists patients to be better prepared to make lifestyle changes after surgery. The support of having knowledge of what to expect, how to control eating habits and maintaining adherence to the guidelines can all help for better results in the long run.

3. Is anyone who has had surgery able to get help through counselling?

Yes. Following surgery, counselling may be beneficial for those to help readjust their eating, body image and lifestyle. It can also assist patients to deal with difficulties and concentrate on their fitness objectives.

Conclusion

Weight loss surgery is not only a physical process, but it’s also a psychological process. Taking time to prepare emotionally for surgery can help patients understand what will happen, set expectations, and help them feel better prepared to cope with the recovery process. Assisting patients in establishing healthy routines with the assistance of a healthcare team and early management of emotional issues can make the transition easier and help patients with healthy routines that will aid in better health post-surgery.