GAD

[stacie304 14]

I'm curious if anyone here has Generalized Anxiety Disorder and had the sleeve done. I'm 4 months into my 6 months pre surgery appointments and have GAD and depression. It scares me that I won't be able to have surgery because of my panic attacks. I guess I'm just wondering if anyone else has anxiety issues and had surgery and how they handled it.

[leojones 4]

I've been diagnosed with GAD and MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) and my surgery is scheduled for June 15. I can't answer your question as someone whose had the surgery, but as someone who has jumped through all of the clearance hurdles and is standing on the precipice I can offer some advice.

Are you taking medication and/or seeing a therapist to deal with your anxiety? If not, I'd recommend doing so soon. Before I pursued the surgery I sought out a psychiatrist and was prescribed an antidepressant and an anti-anxiety medication. The peace of mind medication and therapy have given me has been so helpful while preparing to have this surgery. I can't imagine dealing with the post-op effects without the tools I've been given.

Also, my insurance required I meet with a bariatric psychologist before they would clear me for surgery. I was up front about my struggles with anxiety and depression and the psychologist was really pleased that I had sought solutions to dealing with my mental health. If you're required to meet with a psychologist they may express some concerns regarding your issues with anxiety, if your anxiety has been left untreated.

My advice is: If you haven't already began treatment (medication and/or therapy) for your anxiety then I recommend doing so, both for your mental health in general and because of the major change you're about to go through.

[stacie304 14]

Thank you for your response. Yes I am currently on medication for my anxiety and depression and see a therapist. I see you had your surgery a couple days ago. How are you doing?

[leojones 4]

Thank you for your response. Yes I am currently on medication for my anxiety and depression and see a therapist. I see you had your surgery a couple days ago. How are you doing?

I'm glad to know you're in treatment. I think the fact you were already considering the impact the operation would have on your mental health means you're more prepared than not.

It's been tough, to be honest. Even with the research I did beforehand, the experiences I heard from others, and the mental preparation I did ahead of time, the surgery has been an eye opening experience to put it mildly. A lot of the emotional rollercoaster probably has to do with hormonal changes as my body deals with this major undertaking that's been done, but my relationship with food is undergoing a drastic shakeup as well, so I'm taking it one day at a time.

I'm still on the full-liquid diet until this coming Monday, so strained creamed Soups and broth have been all I've been consuming since Friday. After this phase is over I don't think I'll want to look at a can of chicken broth again! lol

How are you doing? Now that I've jumped over the cliff and am post-op, if there are any questions you have please let me know. And best of luck! [emoji106]