In 2018, after I had my weight loss surgery, I had this incredible mental health boost. I was suddenly confident. It’s like all my stress went out the door. Once the weight started falling off I feel back in love with myself again. It had been so long since I’ve felt this good about myself. When people talk bad about the wls community it hurts my heart. Most people have no idea what you must feel to even start considered the surgery as an option.
Obesity is a growing epidemic that affects millions of people around the world. While the focus is often on the physical health risks associated with excess weight, there’s another aspect of obesity that is often overlooked. The toll it can take on your mental health. Fortunately, weight loss surgery has emerged as a powerful tool for transforming both your physical and mental well-being.
In this article, we’ll explore the surprising benefits of weight loss surgery for your mental health. From increased self-esteem and reduced depression. To overall improved body image and a boosted quality of life. By the end, you’ll see why weight loss surgery is much more than just a quick fix for obesity. It’s a life-changing procedure that can help you break free from the negative thoughts and emotions that come with excess weight.,
Increased Self-Esteem
One of the most surprising benefits of weight loss surgery is the boost in self-esteem. For many of us who are struggling with obesity, negative self-image and low confidence can be debilitating. The physical changes that come with weight loss surgery. Such as fitting into smaller clothes or being able to participate in physical activities with greater ease. Can have a profound impact on how people see themselves. Additionally, the sense of accomplishment that comes with achieving weight loss goals can lead to a sense of pride and confidence. That extends way beyond any physical appearance.
This newfound confidence can have a ripple effect in other areas of life. From personal relationships to professional pursuits. I personally started feeling more comfortable in social situations and at work. And I even feel more empowered to pursue goals and dreams that I once thought were out of reach. This boost in self-esteem helps combat the negative self-talk and inner critic that often accompany mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Speaking of which, let’s now explore another surprising benefit of weight loss surgery: reduced depression and anxiety.,
Reduced Mental Health: Depression and Anxiety
This newfound confidence that comes with weight loss surgery can also have a positive impact on mental health. Specifically reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Many people who struggle with their weight also struggle with these issues. And weight loss surgery can be a game-changer. With weight loss comes an improvement in mood and a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety.
This is likely due in part to the sense of control that comes with weight loss.
Many people I’ve talked with who struggle with their weight told me they feel helpless and out of control. I have also felt this way as well which I believe fuels feelings of anxiety and depression. With weight loss surgery, you can gain control over your body and your health. Which can be incredibly empowering.
Additionally, weight loss surgery often leads to a reduction in symptoms of sleep apnea. Which can also contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety. When patients are able to sleep more deeply and restfully, their overall mood and mental health improves.
Reduced depression and anxiety are just one of the many surprising benefits of weight loss surgery. And as you’ll see in the next section, an improved body image can also have a similarly positive impact on mental health.
Improved Body Image
Weight loss surgery not only improves physical health but also has a significant impact on mental health. Following the surgery, you tend to lose weight quickly, and seeing these changes can help boost your self-esteem, confidence, and body image. Improved body image can be incredibly empowering. This helps motivate you to maintain a healthy lifestyle and become more active.
An improved body image is also associated with reduced depression, anxiety, and other psychological symptoms that commonly arise due to being overweight. By shedding excess weight and feeling better about your appearance, you may experience newfound self-worth and an improved sense of control over your life. This can lead to a better quality of life and overall mental wellbeing.
Boosted Quality of Life
As we have discussed, weight loss surgery has numerous positive effects on mental health, including reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. But even beyond these benefits, weight loss surgery can ultimately lead to a boosted quality of life for many.
For starters, weight loss can improve overall physical health, making it easier for you to move around and engage in activities you may have previously been limited in. This newfound mobility can lead to increased socialization. As you may feel more inclined to participate in group activities or outings.
In addition, weight loss surgery can also have positive effects on career prospects and financial stability.
Studies have shown that patients who undergo weight loss surgery often see an increase in income and job stability, as well as reduced healthcare costs and absenteeism from work.
Overall, weight loss surgery has the potential to greatly improve multiple areas of a persons life. From physical health to mental wellbeing to financial stability. It’s clear that the benefits of this surgery extend far beyond what many people may initially think, further highlighting the importance of considering it as a viable option for those struggling with obesity and related health issues.
May is my favorite mental health month.
With summer approaching so quickly I cannot stress to you to take this month and next to focus and care for yourself. Mentally and emotionally you deserve a break. Reorganize your schedule so you can add in some me time. So you can refocus on your weight loss journey and getting your body back. May is the perfect month to start working on your health goals.
Weight loss surgery is not only a solution to obesity and its health risks, but it also has significant positive impacts on mental health. It can increase self-esteem, reduce depression and anxiety, improve body image, and boost the quality of life. As someone who has gone through this transformational experience, I encourage anyone struggling with obesity to explore all options. Work with a team of healthcare professionals who can support you. Remember, weight loss surgery is not an extreme measure, but a life-changing one that can break the cycle of negative thoughts and emotions. Take the first step towards a happier and healthier life by seeking help today.
