Some are afraid that a psychologist might prevent them from having the surgery they so badly want. There are in fact very few psychological reasons why you might be excluded from surgery.
However, many people have a complicated relationship with food and suffer from low self-esteem, shame and depression from a lifetime of struggling with their weight. Meeting with a psychologist helps you deal with some of these issues, and can help you cope with any difficulties you may have adjusting to your new life. Research has consistently shown that the involvement of a psychologist pre and post-surgery significantly enhances the success of the surgery.
The psychological aspect of the process comes in three main parts.
The first is a clinical interview in which the psychologist gets to know you. This involves a discussion of your history of eating and food, helps you understand the psychological aspects which are associated with the surgery, clarifies any issues you are struggling with, and helps you manage any feelings or anxieties you may have about the surgery.
The second part involves psychological questionnaires. These are not tests which you can pass or fail, and the results will not prevent you from having the surgery. Instead they are designed to indicate areas where you might need encouragement or help to get the maximum success out of the surgery.
The third part of the process is a feedback session in which we discuss the results of the questionnaire and discuss the way forward. For some people, the initial consultation is enough, but for others, regular consultations with a psychologist before and after surgery is what they find most helpful.
A psychologist helps people get the best out of their surgery. Bariatric surgery doesn’t just change your weight and health, it affects every area of your life, including lifestyle, eating behaviours, social relationships and mental health. This is a tremendously exciting journey that has the potential to transform your life.
The role of the psychologist in the bariatric team is to ensure you get the best possible results from the surgery, and to provide any help and support you may need along the journey.
