O.A.

Question: Has anybody joined OA or used the 12 steps in conjunction with bariatric surgery? Is this overkill? I just thinking about mastering bad habits and how surgery changes your stomach and not your brain. Most of my issue is psychological/ emotional. Just curious... 

Hi Focused1,

You are very "wise"!  The head issues are the hardest to overcome and kudos to you for realizing it.  When I talk to people daily I tell them "you have to get it right between your ears before you re-arrange your plumbing".  

There are no set rules, if you think OA will help you go for it. I do hope your surgeon has a very detailed pre-op and post-op program that will help you with education and dealing the head issues.  Let us know if there is anything we can do to help you on your journey!

Thanks Kathy!

    I realize that I have an unhealthy relationship with food and I know that if I do not fix what's wrong mentally, I will not be successful in my surgery/postsurgical life. I eventually would like to have some plastic surgery, but first I need to get to my goal (mentally, physically, and spiritually) before I invest another dime on my outward appearance. I need to love myself... truly love myself first. Know what I mean? And the first way to truly love myself is to get real with myself.

You should do it! I'm thinking about looking for a group in my area.

You know they have phone groups as well. I was thinking of calling in and going for a walk while I listen in. I would like to call in at leat 3 times a week to ensure compliance you know? By the way, I saw your stats and I wanted to link up with you. Maybe we can keep each other encouraged you know?

I tried OA and found that it's not for me.  I have no ability to "trust a higher power" or "surrender" or any of those other things.  I'm entirely too intrinsically motivated and driven.  But I'm glad I tried it, since I wouldn't have known if I hadn't. 

I did see a therapist weekly for the first 18 months post-op and then maybe every other week for another 6-9 months.  That was very beneficial for me.  

Good for you for working to address the mental stuff.  I believe it's the only way a person will ever be successful long-term.  

Thanks Gwen. I am also in the process of finding a therapist as well. It's tricky getting it covered by the insurance... So I figured since I am a spiritual person OA could serve as a filler until I can be seen. Whatever it takes to achieve success as you have. I'm finally ready to do the work.

When I've looked for a therapist before I basically went to my insurance company's website and printed out a list of providers sorted by distance from my house and just started calling.  Fun times :P

OK! That's a great idea! Thanks so much!

Psychology Today has a search feature for therapists in your area and what insurances they are contracted with.