By: Jessie Helmbright, PMHNP
Introduction
A surgical procedure intended to help people lose weight is called bariatric surgery, and its popularity has grown recently. It is important to understand that, despite the fact that this operation has many positive health effects, including better metabolic health and a lower risk of chronic diseases, its psychological effects cannot be ignored. This blog article examines the complex interaction between mental health and bariatric procedures, covering pre- and post-operative issues as well as the function of mental health providers in enhancing patient outcomes.
Preoperative Evaluation of Mental Health
A comprehensive assessment of mental health before to surgery is necessary to guarantee that patients are psychologically ready for the process. This assessment ought to entail a thorough analysis of a number of variables, such as:
Psychiatric problems: It’s critical to recognize past and present mental health issues, such as eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. These disorders may need for extra care or assistance and have a substantial impact on the outcome of bariatric surgery.
Motivating elements: It is crucial to comprehend the patient’s motivations for requesting surgery. Are they driven mostly by social pressures, health concerns, or issues with body image? Determining their general preparedness for the process can be aided by this information.
Anticipations and worries: It can be helpful to address patients’ expectations and worries regarding the procedure in order to prevent disappointment or anxiety. It’s critical to give accurate information on the surgery, the healing period, and any potential difficulties.
Support system: It’s critical to evaluate the patient’s social support system. A robust support network can minimize the chance of complications and greatly enhance post-operative results.
Challenges with Post-Surgical Mental Health
A patient’s life may change significantly after bariatric surgery in both a physical and psychological sense. Typical issues with mental health following surgery include:
Body image problems: Some individuals may experience body image problems even after making a large weight loss. Those with a history of eating disorders may find this especially difficult.
Depression and anxiety following surgery: Hormonal fluctuations, physical restrictions, and social difficulties are some of the causes of post-surgical depression and anxiety. It’s critical to keep an eye out for these indicators and offer the right kind of assistance.
Eating disorders: Conditions like bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder can be brought on by or made worse by bariatric surgery. These illnesses can make it difficult to lose weight and have a detrimental effect on general health.
Relationship difficulties: Significant weight loss may cause changes in romantic and platonic relationships. Some patients may experience tension and anxiety as a result of this.
The Function of Specialists in Mental Health
Psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychologists, and other mental health specialists are essential in helping patients having bariatric surgery. Among their contributions are:
Pre-operative assessment: Performing thorough assessments of mental health in order to detect any hazards and guarantee patient readiness.
Treatment of psychiatric illnesses: Giving patients receiving the right care for mental health issues include depression, anxiety, or eating problems that may have developed before or after surgery.
Teaching people healthy coping mechanisms to deal with stress, anxiety, and issues related to their bodies is known as coping skills training.
Support and direction: Providing emotional support and direction before, during, and after surgery, as well as during the recuperation phase.
Working closely with surgeons and other medical professionals to guarantee the best possible patient care and results is known as collaboration with the surgical team.
In summary
There is a complicated and nuanced relationship between bariatric surgery and mental health. Healthcare providers can greatly enhance patient outcomes and assist people in achieving long-term success in their weight reduction journeys by addressing mental health issues both prior to and following surgery. To maximize the benefits of bariatric surgery and guarantee a happy experience for all parties involved, a cooperative strategy combining surgeons, mental health providers, and patients is crucial.
References
- American Psychiatric Association (APA). (2016). Resource Document on Bariatric Surgery and Psychiatric Care. Retrieved from [invalid URL removed]
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). (2023). Bariatric Surgery FAQs. Retrieved from [invalid URL removed]
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2023). Bariatric Surgery. Retrieved from Weight-loss (Metabolic & Bariatric) Surgery – NIDDK (nih.gov) Lesson (washington.edu) Lesson (washington.edu)
- Samaha, A. N., & Grilo, C. M. (2016). Bariatric surgery and psychiatric illness: A review. International Journal of Obesity, 40(1), 1-10.
- Smith, K. A., & D’Agostino, R. B. (2017). Psychosocial factors in bariatric surgery: A systematic review. Obesity Surgery, 27(1), 1-10.
