Psych evaluation & depression?

[hopefulmom25 0]

When I go in for my mandatory pre-op pscyh evaluation, should I let the psychologist know that I'm on anti-depressants? I have had very mild depression for the past few years, and I know it is because of my weight and the constant daily pain I am in as a result of my weight. I've been on a very low dosage of anti-depressants for about 6 months now. I just wasn't sure if a history of mild depression could cause a person to fail the pscyh eval? Even when the depression is weight related? I don't want that to be what stops me from having this surgery. Should I be honest about it or deny,deny, deny?

[Lori_NC 1]

Behonest because what I understand is that they are making sure you understand what will be happening to you by having the surgery, even the possible negative side affects, confirming that you wont purposefully try to induce voimitting, that you have a good source for help, you arent against seeing a therapist if you realize that your food addiction is continuing on and that you are ready to make a change in your diet. My therapist knew that I was previously seeing someone for depression and various other issues and she was WONDERFUL!

[RainyDay 0]

I think many obese people have a history of mild (or even severe) depression. As long as it's controlled and you are willing to get treatment if you need it now or in the future, I can't imagine them denying you for that reason. I have my first psych eval meeting tomorrow and I'll definitely be candid about my history with mental health.

Good luck! I bet you'll be just fine.

[sfeiner 2]

Yes. Be honest about everything. I think a good share of us (obese ppl) have depression. The Docs know that. We've been self medicating with food for years. They kknow that.

[jocarojo 0]

I agree with all, it should come as no surprise to any psychologist that an obese person may be depressed.

Besides, as a clinican myself, it's hard to fake it. If I was complting your assessment I would completley understand.

[MacMadame 81]

I think depression is even considered a co-morbidity by a lot of insurance companies.

[globally yours 0]

They may even suggest a med change. I take half a paxil a day, and the Dr said paxil can stimulate appetite, so I'm looking into getting it changed.