Question:
Surgery related depression
Can WLS trigger depression? This is the kind of depression that may last for months if not treated. — Bonnie H. (posted on May 7, 2000)
May 7, 2000
Yes, WLS can trigger depression. It's pretty normal to feel some
depression after surgery. Since most people seem to get hit with it at
around 3-4 weeks post-op, my guess is that there may be a physiological
reason, although I don't know for sure and I don't know of any studies that
have been done on it. For me, the depression was severe, but short-lived.
It lasted about ten days, and then one morning I just woke up and felt
better. Heck if I know why!
— Kim H.
May 8, 2000
I am 12 days postop and have been experiencing some of these
blues...nothing intolerable, however. My surgeon explained that general
anesthesia plays hell with your hormones. The menstrual cycle becomes
irregular and you experience mood swings. I was treated for severe
depression last year after losing my husband in a car accident. Most of my
wls related depression has been missing him and the way he would baby me
when I was sick. I haven't regretted the operation, and the tears haven't
lasted for long. However, if it gets worse, I'll be on the phone to my
surgeon or therapist. Best wishes.
— [Deactivated Member]
May 8, 2000
check out www.sabariatric.com ... I think it's in either the FAQ or side
effects ... there's an article on "hibernation syndrome". I had
it at around 3 wks post-op and got myself into some counselling to help ...
I've been in clinical depression before and didn't want to slide back
there! Good luck!
— Kathy H.
May 8, 2000
I have read other websites that stated that there can be depression after
surgery. And those websites stated a few reasons: anesthesia, actual
surgery, hormones...I had become depressed about 3 or 4 days after being
discharged from the hospital. For me, it almost felt like having
"baby blues" after my kids were born. It lasted about a week
then just like Kim, I believe it is, I woke up one morning and I was fine.
I remember crying and telling my husband I didn't want him to go to work, I
just wanted him to stay home and take care of me because I was so sad. I
just didn't want to be left alone. Thankfully, my mom was around and
helped me through it. If it doesn't go away, I would see my surgeon or my
PCP to make sure there isn't some underlying condition that may be
triggering the depression. Good Luck to you...
— Marni
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