Weight Loss Surgery Can Help Relieve Depression

Weight Loss Surgery Can Help Relieve Depression

Depression can be termed as an illness involving moods, thoughts and even the entire body. People with morbid obesity are likely to suffer from depression and there are a number of reasons behind it. Emotional health is in tandem with the physical health.

Therefore, improvement in physical health and lifestyle can help resolve depression. Weight loss through bariatric surgery along with professional counseling can be very helpful in improving mental health.

Patients who undergo weight loss surgery report improved quality of life, better social interactions, psychological wellness, and better performance at work. Psychological screening prior to the surgery prepares a patient for these positive changes. Bartiatric surgeon Dr. William Beltre provides weight loss surgeries to patients in Orlando, Tampa, Maitland, Central Florida, and surrounding locations.

Research Studies

In several research studies, patients have reported post-operative improvement in the symptoms of depression, quality of life, and personal body image and self-esteem.

A controlled study conducted by SOS that involved 4,047 obese patients provides a good assessment of the post-operative mental health change following bariatric surgery. Patients in this study reported a significant decrease in their anxiety and depression a year after the surgery in comparison to another set of obese patients treated with the exercise, counseling and diet.

A detailed review of as many as 40 studies from 1982-2002 reinforces these findings. Post-op improvement of psychiatric disorders anxiety and depression in particular was reported in these studies. There were specific psychological gains made by patients who achieved weight reduction.

Self-Image and Personality

Self-image includes a number of vital characteristics, including body image, self-confidence, self-esteem and a personal sense of assertiveness and attractiveness. These positive personality changes appear to be co-related with major improvement in patients after a weight loss surgery.

NIH Research Study

According to a recent study published by the National Institutes of Health showed a considerable improvement in depression among females who went through weight loss intervention. The study was conducted to examine and monitor the predictors of change in depression symptoms among 148 obese females with major depressive disorder.

The trial compared the results of depression treatment and behavioral weight loss treatment (Behavioral Activation or BA) in one group to the behavioral weight loss treatment alone (Lifestyle Intervention or LI) in a second group. At about six months, 73 percent of the participants in BA and 54 percent of the participants in LI showed significant improvement in the depression symptoms.

Only 1.5 percent of the participants in BA and 1.3 percent of the participants in LI showed worsening in the depression symptoms. Rate of change was found to be similar at 12 months.

Realistic Expectations

It is important to note that the success rate against depression symptoms in bariatric patients is not 100 percent. There can be post-operative changes which are undesirable and patients could react to that.

These may include less than expected weight loss, regaining of weight and certain cosmetic changes in the skin. Experienced bariatric surgeon Dr. William Beltre receives patients from Orlando, Tampa, Maitland, Central Florida, and nearby areas for weight loss procedures.

Important Note: If the weight is regained, diabetes and other conditions could return.

To find out more about the procedures & treatments performed by Orlando Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Wiljon Beltre, at The Center for Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Call 321-499-6505 or Click Here to Schedule a Consultation.