psych evaluation - ThinnerTimes

melissard · 07-20-2006, 01:00 PM

I was wondering why they want to make sure you are not an addict, and what that has to do with WLS. I am kinda stressed about this because I, well let me say first that,I know you guys don't know me but, I am a recovering addict and am waiting for an insurance approval and scare this might cause them to deni me. Can I please get some feed back if anyone has any answers or has known someone in the same boat. Anything would be appreciated...

mussakka · 07-20-2006, 04:06 PM

I think it's more likely they want to make sure you fully understand the ramifications of the surgery and how significant an impact it will have on your life. I don't see addiction itself as a barrier, as long as it is being treated. One girl at the seminar last night was a recovering narcotics addict and she had a similar question. The doctor basically told her former addicts are a concern because of the stress after the surgery and the possibilty of replacing one addictive behavior (food) with drugs or alcohol.

So ultimately, you have to know yourself and seriously, and I mean seriously, consider all the variables.

maria · 07-20-2006, 06:45 PM

Melissa, I too am a recovering addict. I had no problem with the psych eval. I was very honest about my recovery and the support sysytems I have in place. I found in my recovery from narcotics that food was just as serious an addiction. I feel that I ahve to have new coping skills. I have given up drugs and cigarettes and now am giving up how I relied on food for emotional satisfaction. There has to be something to plug into that place if you have an addictive personality like mine. I think pre-op they want you to be aware of behavioral changes you may face post op.

Mavisavis · 07-20-2006, 06:46 PM

I too think it is to make sure you do not replace your food addiction with another dangerous one. I would hope that most docs would make sure you are in recovery and have plans in place to deal with the issues, but not use it to exclude.

Ann8615 · 08-06-2006, 07:28 AM

I understand your concern. I am in recovery as well, and am bi-polar. I have been discussing this surgury with my psych for a few months now. He was originally against it, thought I should 12-step my way to a lower weight. Then he took me off Paxil, because has a history of causing significant weight gain. Last month, he asked me this: If he could solve my weight problem (get me to a normaml weight, improve the co-morbidities),by cutting off one of my pinkie fingers, would I do it? I wanted to laugh...Of course, I would do it in a heartbeat! Losing a pinkie finger would be nothing compared to the seriousness of GBP surgury. He has been a psych "screener" for GBP for a long time. I think he is finally coming around to approving my surgury. I have a consult with him on 08/22/06, and will let you know.

As for relapsing or getting another addiction after surgury, my theory is that if you have a good support system, go to meetings and work with your sponsor, you are doing all the right things, and will minimize your risk of relapse/a new addiction.

My hope is to become addicted to exercise and a healthy lifestyle!
Good luck!
Ann, new member
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