Importance of Weight Loss Support
Weight loss surgery is a big undertaking, both physically and emotionally. Making changes to your body can be hard to process, particularly when your appearance begins to change rapidly. However, the right weight loss support group can make a big difference in recovery, ensuring you are in a good place as you pursue the benefits of bariatric procedures.
Bariatric Support Following Surgery
Support comes in many shapes and sizes and can vary greatly from one person to another. In spite of this, support from as many avenues as possible can be important for those recovering from bariatric surgery.
As your body undergoes changes and your lifestyle shifts, the emotional, mental, and physical ramifications may be immense. Things like eating fewer unhealthy foods, exercising more, and even buying new clothes can lead to complicated feelings regarding self and identity, particularly when former hobbies or habits clash with these new ideals. These emotions can be hard to overcome, but the right support system can help.
Friends and Family
Your friends and family should be your closest and most regular supporters. These people know you inside and out and understand who you are regardless of weight. They knew you before surgery and after surgery and thus are best positioned to stand by you as you work through the process. Don’t be afraid to discuss frustrations and share how you’re feeling about the changes to your body; your support system can’t offer words of wisdom or sympathize with how you’re feeling if you don’t speak up.
Support Groups
While your friends and family members know you on a personal level, a support group can offer support related to the specifics of bariatric surgery. At a weight loss support group, you can learn more about the recovery process, coping strategies, weight loss tips, and other valuable details that can help you put the changes to your body into perspective. Support groups provide context in the form of stories from others, educational speakers, and topical conversations that can keep you grounded and focused as you move forward.
Professional Support
For some who have undergone weight loss surgery, support groups, friends, and family aren’t enough to guide the process of losing weight. When psychological issues stemming from your past are interfering with your progress, speaking to a professional about what you are experiencing can be beneficial. A therapist with experience in bariatric procedures and weight loss may be able to help you frame your experiences in a healthy light, helping you to work through the thoughts and feelings concerning your life changes.
Weight loss is rarely easy, but bariatric surgery can help. With resources from CCS Bariatrics, it’s possible to move forward with the best weight loss support possible. Contact us today to learn more about our support groups or to register for a free weight loss surgery seminar!