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Hi,

I am interested in learning as much as possible about what emotional issues you face after surgery and what it is you most need. As a counsellor I work with (mainly women) over a wide range of issues but also work with quite a few people who are preparing for or have had one of the bariatric surgeries.

I offer workshops and decided this year to offer a workshop each month on the third Saturday that is of interest to bariatric patients.

I have picked three or four topics based on feedback from those of you I have spoken with, and wanted to consult to ask you if I am missing anything obvious.

So far the topics are these: Dealing with food cravings (Feb), preparing for surgery (Mar), and staying motivated longterm after the weight loss (April) etc. Two other topics are how WL surgery is different for men, and a suggested one on spouses.

Lastly I am offering a workshop this Sat Jan 28 that is open to everyone on making new year's resolutions in case anyone is interested. I did one last Saturday same topic open only to bariatric patients, and feedback was very positive. This week's workshop will cover all life goals including weight loss. If you would like to know more check my website for info http://www.gracefulsolutions.ca or email me gracegerry@shaw.ca

Thanks for any feedback or ideas 

Hi Frances,

Good question. I did reply to your post but somehow don't see it on the website, so maybe it is hiding somewhere!

Basically I said when you stop using a coping method such as overeating to manage emotions, they will come up more easily, and it is natural to worry it is going to get out of control. The same thing happens when someone gives up smoking and they become more irritable and emotional for a while.

The key thing is to find ways to manage this which is exactly your question. One thing I would suggest is to create regular times when you can pay some attention to your emotional insides, so you can drain off some of the build up. Sitting down on your own with a notebook to write about how you feel and where you feel it in your body is one way. Even better find a buddy to talk to about how you feel about your week, your life and you.

By letting feelings out bit by bit, they are less likely to spill out at the wrong time. Key ways to express them are talking, laughing, tears. There are others too depending on the emotion. Hope that helps.

Grace

ps – I have a new feature on my website called "Ask Grace" where anyone can write a question or problem and I will answer it within a few days, and it is FREE! For more info check out – http://www.gracefulsolutions.ca