Bariatric surgery is usually the last option for obese or morbidly obese patients who are unable to lose weight successfully on their own. While many can attest to the effectiveness of such surgery, it is in itself not a magic pill.
The team at New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville says that in order for patients to sustain their weight loss, they have to be committed to lifelong lifestyle changes.
But things happen. There’s work, home life, and a lot of emotions to deal with after surgery. This may lead you to fall back on old habits and derail you from making progress.
This is where a bariatric support group becomes valuable.
Why join a support group?
A bariatric support group can have a positive impact on your life after your surgery. Joining a support group can help you with the following
- Education
Bariatric surgery can definitely change your life! However, the lifestyle changes needed to sustain your weight loss can be overwhelming. This is especially true if you are stuck with unhealthy habits for years.
A support group can help you go through the process.
Most groups have a topic planned for each meeting to help educate the members. It could be about food addiction, fitness, or healthy eating.Some support groups would invite a speaker, usually a trained and experienced professional (e.g. registered dietitian, fitness trainer), to share their knowledge about certain topics.
- Accountability
In many cases, those who had their surgery 3 years or more ago still find it necessary to join support groups to stay on track. By doing so, these ‘veterans’ don’t just help themselves but also those who are new to the group.
There’s no one else who could understand what they’re going through except them who have been in their shoes before.
- Emotional Support
The role of your family and friends are vital after bariatric surgery. However, it can be challenging at times to explain what you’re going through.
They may be able to offer support, but it’s different when you can talk it out with people who have been or are experiencing what you’re dealing with.
- Long-Term Weight Loss Success
Weight loss is a journey. It can be filled with a lot of ups and downs.
A support group can provide you with a safe environment to share your frustrations, failures, and triumphs. This, in the long run, can help you stay on track and sustain your weight loss.
The New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery has in-person support groups for our bariatric patients, as well as an online Facebook support group. Visit our Support Group webpage at https://www.newlifebariatricsurgery.com/life-after-surgery/support-groups/ or call the New Life office at (865) 694-9676 for dates and details!
New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery is part of Premier Surgical Bariatrics. New Life is affiliated with the Parkwest Center for Bariatric Surgery, a member of Covenant Health Bariatrics in Knoxville, TN.
References:
https://primesurgicare.com/bariatric-support-groups-why-they-are-so-important/