3 Common Emotional Issues after Bariatric Surgery

As in, "I don't want to get out of this chair, everything is moving through molasses," blues? Don't despair any more than you have to: what you have is a medically identifiable condition, and it's perfectly normal. You're likely suffering from depression.
What's this? Depression is normal? It is in fact. Studies have shown that most people, at one or more points in their lives, have gone through spells of what could likely be medically identified as depression.

There are several different reasons for depression that are related to weight loss surgery. But it's also possible you could be suffering from depression for other reasons. Counselors and support groups can help, but depression is often chemical and may require medication. If the former two options don't help, see your general practitioner.

Don't feel bad--you're certainly not the first! Your mind has held a certain image of you for a very long time now, and it will likely take it a minute to adjust as the real you comes to surface.

But don't worry--this is just a bit of cognitive dissonance, a bump in the road that leads to your new self. There are plenty of bariatric support groups both online and off that are full of people who are going through or who have gone through the same thing. Joining one will probably help you a lot.

Strange as this may sound, it happens. It takes an adjustment for any partner to get used to the new you, and sometimes the strain can be substantial.

After all, you're not just changing physically--you're changing emotionally as well. Some partners may not know how to react to your increased self-confidence and self-esteem. If they feel threatened by this, it's probably a good idea to seek a couple's counselor.

Then again, your significant other may fear that the new, more attractive and confident you may just decide to play the field. Jealousy from a spouse is more common than you might think. It can be a rocky ride for both of you. Reassuring him or her that your feelings are the same (if not better) for your mate and a little extra attention can help make a difference. Again, it's a good idea to see a couple's counselor if this cannot be resolved.