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[Sian]

So I did the roux en y gastric bypass about 6 months ago officially and I have been struggling to cope with everything. I had been diagnosed with bipolar 2 and generalized anxiety pre op and was taking medication. However, I noticed post op even on medication have this lingering depression and stress. It has manifested into me weighing myself at least 4 times a day , not eating for fear I am eating too much , drinking less than recommended amount of water and walking around with this increased sense of loneliness. It must be noted that I moved to the US 5 months ago for school and have been living here on my own with no family or friends. So I more or less have been coping with life after surgery on my own. This drastic move I know has something to do with the symptoms of depression I have been feeling but I am terrified that it might soon manifest into an eating disorder. I just need someone to talk to , I need to know that is normal post surgery and I am not just broken.

Sian

 

[eladams2015]

Welcome Sian - On one hand, yes, major surgery of any kind can cause or exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety. On the other hand, you have a preexisting situation and I would really recommend that you let your mental health professional know that you are experiencing continued issues. If you are on a time release medication, that will likely need to be changed because your system does not allow the meds to stay in your stomach long enough to work properly. In addition to a medical doctor that you see for the bipolar/anxiety, do you also see any sort of counselor? Someone to talk thru things with in a less medical capacity and more therapeutic capacity. You will find support here as well - there are some really great and encouraging people, but none of us are a replacement for medical care.

I hope that as you are in the states longer, you are able to make some friends at school and get a support system around you closer. Connection is essential!

 

[Brenda2010]

Hi Sian and welcome, I'm glad you found us. I completely agree with el on all points. I would definitely reach out to your doctor. You meds may need tweaking because of the malabsorption. Does your school have a mental health professional on staff? I think most do. If you aren't already seeing someone, I would start there. I hope you start to feel better soon.

 

[Cyxelsid]

, I need to know that is normal post surgery and I am not just broken.

You are not broken. Those are a lot of severe stressors, (moving to a new country with no support, major surgery and accompanying mandatory lifestyle chages, as well as challenging pre-existing medical conditions). Any one of those things have brought people down, much less all three.

I would think what you are experiencing is a severe but normal stress response. I agree with the others, you may need some help with coping skills as you navigate your new life and it's challenges, and appropriate medical and counseling help is best right now... BUT YOU ARE NOT BROKEN.

You have made a decision to change your life for the better, and that is the opposite of broken.

Good luck and fair wishes fir your health!