Gastric Bypass Surgery Support Group
Gastric bypass (GBP) is any of a group of similar operative procedures used to treat morbid obesity, a condition which arises from severe accumulation of excess weight in the form of fatty tissue, and the health problems ("co-morbidities") which result. If you are considering gastric bypass or have had it, join the community where we share our experiences and find support.
Hello everyone, and I hope everyone is doing well. I'm back again after a bit of a hiatus. I am 2 months post op and 100 lbs down. Now with that being said I need some advice. I know I have lost 100 lbs and that is a HUGE accomplishment, but now I'm having a problem with body image. I still feel like I'm viewed as 350lbs. I can't get it in my head that I'm no longer there and never will be again. I wear much smaller clothes now, but I am always adjusting my clothes thinking I am too big for them or they look bad. I have had nothing but compliments on how I look but I guess I'm my own worst enemy. I am considering starting therapy sessions. What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Well done on 100 lbs gone. That is awesome! I hope you'll be happier with the tools you'll get from therapy. I know having someone other than yourself to speak to and get feedback from makes a big difference when we're trying to change ourselves. Best of luck.
I too am going back to therapy hoping I can get help with the emotional hunger I still feel. I'm 30 away from my goal. I've lost 70.
It helps to look at old pictures and then look in the mirror to drive it home that you have changed. My good friend took pics just before surgery and I'm amazed at the difference still.
Notice the things like how much easier it is to walk. That was my first clue when I started losing. Best of luck and great job once again!
Two+ years-op, I walk into the bathroom, turn on the lights...look in the mirror and say: " Who is that thin old woman and why is she wearing my pajamas?"
It' so difficult to "SEE" and accept ourselves as we really appear in the mirror, in photos, and to others. There is so much societal pressure put on women, and perhaps men as well, though I can't speak to that point. I just know that we have to work on ourselves from the inside out. When we are content with the way we feel inside, the outward appearance usually follows. Self-acceptance, body image, and self-esteem are elusive creatures.
These are issues that ALL women face daily. There's no miracle answer. It requires a tremendous amount of "head work". Even when you think you've got it down...the next day can knock you to your knees.
Just continue working on your image every day. Remind yourself how important and valuable you are to your family,friends and to life in general. We all have something to contribute, and when we contribute (joy-love-compassion) happiness and self-acceptance usually follow.
If you need outside help, counseling or other resources, don't hesitate to use ALL available options. You know the saying "it takes a village"? This applies not only to children but to our entire well-being as humans.