Support Groups
Our program offers support group meetings which are open both to those considering surgery and to those who have had the surgery, and are led by our program clinical psychologist, Diane LeMont, Ph.D.
At support group meetings, we encourage discussion of any topic of interest for our patients. After any bariatric surgical procedure, including gastric bypass, there is a greater probability of long-term success if physical, psychological and relationship issues are acknowledged and discussed.
The significant physical and behavioral changes that result from the surgery are only part of the adjustment. For most obese people, emotional and psychological factors have contributed to the obesity and/or have resulted from it. Losing weight may help lessen or eliminate some of these, but not necessarily all issues. Also, new emotional factors may arise for both you and those around you, as you start feeling differently about yourself and others react to real or perceived changes in your personality and lifestyle.
Our support groups provide a supportive environment where every concern is treated with respect, including:
* Who to tell about your surgery
* Getting through the first days after surgery
* Variations in recovery experiences
* Eating and recipe ideas
* Stress management
* Dealing with saboteurs (innocent and not so innocent)
* Pros and cons of being smaller
* Managing anxiety
* Assertive communications
* Changing relationships
For more information, call toll-free, 1-877-771-5483.