Support System after Weight Loss Surgery

Having weight loss surgery is one of the biggest changes a person can experience. There are so many wonderful moments, such as being able to wear a size smaller or fit into an airplane seat for the first time. There are so many things to celebrate. Those special moments are so much better when you have a support system. You need cheerleaders by your side to be there with you during these huge milestones. I remember very early on in my journey I had a few friends that would go shopping with me when I hit a smaller size. It was so special to make a day out of my accomplishment. Having a support system during these amazing times made the journey so much better.

There is more to the surgery than just joy and accomplishments. There are difficult times as well. I would be lying if I said everything was rainbows and butterflies. It can be an extremely difficult transition for some people. When you spend your entire life revolving everything around food, it can take a huge toll on you emotionally when you don’t have it anymore. The first few days after my surgery were extremely difficult for me emotionally. I remember watching my husband eat his dinner and I cried. I cried because I wanted to eat. I wasn’t hungry, but I craved food. It was so difficult for me because I was severely addicted to food. Thankfully, he helped me through that moment, and I was able to calm down.

Having a support system plays a huge role in how successful you are after surgery. In my opinion, if you try to do it alone, it will be extremely difficult. Some people choose to tell their friends and family about the surgery, while other people like to be more reserved. For those of you that would like to be more reserved, I encourage you to still find support in another way. For example, there are so many wonderful support groups out there for bariatric patients. I have found some of my closest friends through Facebook support groups. Even though we are miles apart, we can be there for one another through the exciting and difficult moments.

Life as a bariatric patient is different than what it was before. It will be an ongoing journey that you are on and you will always need the love and support from other people. You might find people in your life that don’t support the surgery. Keep your head up and trust in yourself and your decision. Not everyone will agree with your lifestyle and that is okay. Find the people that do support it and will be behind you through the good and the bad. You need more people like that in your life. Don’t take those relationships for granted. Show your support system how much you appreciate them and communicate the things you need from them on this journey. You can do this! With the help of those around you, you are on the right path towards a healthier you!