Psychological support after bariatric surgery is extremely important to ensure the long-term success of the surgery and to maintain the person's general well-being. Bariatric surgery brings with it emotional and psychological challenges in addition to physical changes. Therefore, it is necessary to focus not only on the physical recovery aspect of the process, but also on the psychological aspects. Here are the main reasons why psychological support after bariatric surgery is important:
1. Adapting to Lifestyle Changes
Bariatric surgery requires radical changes in a person's eating habits and lifestyle. This new order may seem challenging at first. Psychological support helps a person adapt to these changes and maintain long-term success. Therapists teach people to cope with emotional eating habits and develop healthy eating habits.
2. Body Image and Self-Perception
With post-operative weight loss, many people may have difficulty coping with their rapidly changing body image. People may experience a discrepancy between the image they see in the mirror and their mental perceptions. This process can lead to problems such as body dysmorphia or low self-esteem. Psychological support helps individuals accept these changes and perceive themselves positively.
3. Emotional Eating and Eating Disorders
Many obese patients may have developed emotional eating habits. Overeating is common to cope with feelings such as stress, anxiety, depression or loneliness. Although surgery physically shrinks the stomach, it does not completely eliminate these emotional eating habits. Psychological support guides individuals to recognize these habits and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
4. Changes in Identity and Social Relationships
After weight loss, people may experience changes in their identities and social circles. Individuals who have been living with obesity for many years may experience identity confusion when they suddenly find themselves in a very different body. In addition, weight loss can affect relationships with family and friends. Psychotherapy plays an important role in adapting to this new situation and developing healthy social relationships.
5. Emotional Fluctuations in the Weight Loss Process
The weight loss process usually starts quickly, but can slow down over time or enter plateau periods. This can cause loss of motivation, disappointment or even depression in some patients. Psychological support helps to cope with such emotional fluctuations, to be patient and to focus on long-term goals.
6. Depression and Anxiety Coping
Many people living with obesity before surgery may struggle with psychological issues such as depression and anxiety. The weight loss process may not solve these issues; on the contrary, in some cases, these issues may become even more pronounced. Psychological support is essential to cope with these emotional difficulties and maintain mental health.
7. Long-Term Weight Management
Bariatric surgery alone is not a solution. Individuals who maintain healthy lifestyle habits after surgery ensure that weight loss is permanent. Psychological support helps individuals keep their motivation high, stick to their goals, and avoid returning to old habits.
8. Family and Social Support Relationships
The surgical process affects not only the individual but also the family and immediate environment. Family members may have difficulty adapting to the person's changing lifestyle. Psychological support can help both the individual and the family understand this process and support each other.
