Abstrakt
Bariatric surgery has proved to be the most effective treatment method for obesity and its comorbidities. However complex of psychological issues may arise after extreme weight loss induced by surgery.
The multidisciplinary team approach firstly helps to deal with psychosocial and psychopathological components related to severe obesity and secondly assists individuals who decided to deal with their disease in long-term. Higher prevalence of psychological distress, unrecognized presurgical mood and anxiety disorders or childhood trauma survivorship are in direct correlation with obesity level (BMI) and bariatric patient status.
Obesity and food might stand as stabilizing factors despite low levels of individual satisfaction. Weight loss and psychosocial changes after bariatric intervention may trigger mental destabilization, as certain problems can persist or even elevate after surgery.
Uncovering of emotional problems which underlie obesity may result in increase or new onset of substance abuse in 13,3% (Ivezaj V. 2014), psychiatric hospitalization, antidepressant use or 2- 3 times higher rate of suicidal attempt (Sarwer DB. 2014). The most vulnerable period is about 2 years after surgery (Hayden MJ. 2014, Odom J. 2010), during weight loss plateau and regain, or after excessive and rapid weight loss.
Higher frequency of follow-up visits may help to mitigate and prevent risks of psychological distress which may result into serious mental issues and weight regain. This is especially important in patients suffering from gross psychopathology who are in substantially greater need for follow-ups.
It's important for a patient as well as for a professional to recognize when to reach the psychological or psychiatric support.