I'm just going to vent a little bit here. Please don't mind me. 

I had surgery 2 years ago. I currently weigh 234lbs. This is my new reality. I've adjusted to it, and most of the people around me have as well. I don't get a lot of people commenting, unless they haven't seen me in a long time, but more often than not, I get told I'm losing more weight, or too much weight even though I've reached what I'm likely to lose. 

I've been dealing with some stuff lately though, and since surgery that I wasn't prepared for, and to be honest, am struggling with. 

1. Depression

Sadnes****s me, and it hits me hard. I have times where I can't control my sadness. I cry at the drop of a hat, and it lasts for weeks then passes. It affects my work, my home life, and my general ability to cope. 

2. Post Prandial Hypoglycemia 

This knocks the crap out of me, and I have times where I nearly pass out. Luckily I've discovered what the signs are and can adjust and prevent it for the most part, but sometimes whatever I'm doing to keep things in balance, my body shifts and I lose control of it again, having to adjust. 




Those are the main ones. So far I'm in marriage counselling, and see a private counsellor. I'm trying to find a dietician in Ottawa who can help me as far as foods for my DS, and the PP-H. I'm doing everything I know how to keep busy and occupied, but I struggle. I feel really alone in this, even though I have a great support network. 

It's not all negative. I don't want to come across that way. But it seems the highs are real high and the lows are real low. 

Thanks for listening guys. I appreciate it. 

So sorry to hear you are having a hard time right now Angus. I have no advice on the Post Prandial Hypoglycemia, but I am here to tell you a little pharmaceutical goes a long way with regards to the depression. If your GP decides to go that way with it, don't resist, there is no shame - I don't think I'll EVER give up my anti-depressant. I still need counselling but the anti-depressant helps me keep a clear head to think through things I need to deal with.

We're here for ya.

~ Karen

 Thanks Karen, 

I'm taking Welbutrin, and it's wonderful. I'm just wondering if I'm absorbing it properly, etc. 

I appreciate your feedback. Big hugs. 

Dear Angus,

Have you been on the same dosage throughout your post op of WLS? I would request a switch or up the dosage until you find you can counterat the malabsorption. Even at 2 years out your body will still be adjusting (even ever so slightly) and hormonally we all flux throughout our life time. Brain chemistry is a tricky brew to get balanced so being pro-active and demanding adjustments is definitely a worthwhile road to go down. 

As to the hypoglycemia , you may want to go for a blood work regime and check your levels. This is what plagues me and I seem to be more concerned with it then with any more weight loss. Fatigue is the greatest of concerns as it effects your every day life. For me small meals throughout the day is now working better then three meals and 2 snacks....I just have to watch that I don't end up grazing or let my mood choice my food for me. 

 

Please let us know how things are going and we would love to see you at a support group. I run the one on Tuesday evenings in Ottawa...pm for more info...I understand you were a leader in the community as well so you know the importance of support.

Cheers

Terry45

 

I was diagnosed as bi-polar, 2 years before my surgery, your symptoms are classic bi-polar with really dramtic highs and lows.  I am on a combination of anti-depressants but it took awhile to figure out the right combination.  With the Welbutrin, you need to make sure it is not the XL because it doesn't work on DSers.  You need to get the regular kinds.  I also take Prozac with the Welbutrin in the morning and Seroquel at night.  It works wonderfully for me. 
Taking anti-depressants is nothing to be ashamed of, as depression is a disease just like diabetes and it needs the proper treatment.
I hope this helps.
Remember you are not alone.

Thanks for sharing that.  There was a post on here earlier today about depression and gastric bypass and your honesty on this topic is informative. Maybe you will find some information in that post about changes in your diet that might be helpful.  

I haven't had surgery yet, but I have experienced depression before and I know how hard it is.  Try to remember that it will go away eventually and you will be your old self.  Try also to remember that you are not alone.  Anyone who knows about depression can relate to how you are feeling. 

Keep doing all of the things you are doing.  It sounds like you are on the right path.

Wishing you well.

Challie

 Thanks Challie, 

I had experienced depression before I had surgery, but it seems amplified since. I know it's temporary. That's the thing, I don't have thoughts of suicide, or anything along those lines, just sadness. 

I've also experienced menopausal symptoms, and those of PMS to the degree that I've looked for my vagina in the hopes to have a reason for it. 

It's a journey we're on, no doubt about it. 

Hi Angus,
Big hugs.  It's a tough ride to be on.  I have also experienced alot of depression.  It has been overwhelming at times.  At its worst, I wanted to die and take my kids with me, end my marriage and basically give up on life.  I got on meds( which have helped immensely), my family got into counseling and I am trying to take it one day at a time or an hour at a time, depending on the day.  It is horrible to feel so alone when you are surrounded by people.  I can completely relate.  

It will get better.  Do what you need to do to make yourself feel better.  No one is here to judge you.  If you need to vent, please post.  You may find that it helps to sort out your feelings.  I did that here one day, and still get wonderful messages asking how I am.  On a bad day, that can make a world of difference.

Take care,
Jeanetta

 Thanks Jeanetta, 

It's nice knowing there's a place like this where people get it without having to explain how it relates to weight loss, etc. 

I appreciate everyone sharing with me too. 

Hugs, 
Angus