Support for your mind is just as important as support for your body after bariatric surgery
Support from a bariatric psychologist both before and after surgery is an invaluable part of long-term success. Weight loss surgery is more than just a physical journey, it’s an emotional and psychological one too. While your body is undergoing significant changes, your mind is also going through its own adjustments. The link between weight and psychology is quite well documented. At Mackay McLeod, recognising those emotional and psychological aspects before and after surgery is an important part of providing a comprehensive model of care. In this article, we’ll explain how working with a psychologist contributes to better outcomes, emotional wellbeing, and lasting lifestyle changes. We encourage you to include them as part of your support team after bariatric surgery.
What is a bariatric psychologist?
A bariatric psychologist puts a special focus on understanding the weight loss surgery process, and has experience working with patients experiencing obesity who have chosen to consider weight loss surgery. While there is no specific specialty, the bariatric process is unique, and psychologists who understand the unique needs of bariatric patients can be supportive in the days, weeks and months before and after surgery.
Why see a bariatric psychologist before surgery?
- To prepare mentally and emotionally. Weight loss surgery isn’t a quick fix. It requires major life changes — how you eat, how you think about food, and how you respond to stress or emotions. A psychologist helps you prepare for this transition, building resilience and realistic expectations.
- To identify emotional eating or disordered behaviours. Many people living with obesity use food as a coping mechanism. A pre-op assessment can uncover habits like emotional eating, binge eating, or past trauma that may impact your recovery.
- To assess readiness. The psychologist helps assess your readiness for surgery. Not to judge your previous behaviour, but to ensure you’re equipped for the psychological demands of the journey ahead.
Psychological assessment before surgery helps identify factors that may impact your success. Research suggests that identifying and addressing these factors early can support readiness for surgery and help patients prepare for the long-term lifestyle changes required afterwards. This step ensures patients are well supported and helps guide referrals for additional care where needed.
Why see a psychologist after surgery?
- Adjusting to the “new you.” Post-surgery life often brings changes in self-image, relationships, and even social dynamics. It can be a lot to process. A psychologist helps you adjust to your changing identity and body.
- Preventing transfer addiction. Some people may transfer their reliance on food to other behaviours like alcohol, shopping, or gambling. Ongoing psychological support reduces the risk of unhealthy substitutions.
- Managing mood changes. Rapid weight loss and hormonal shifts can affect mood. Studies show that some individuals experience increased anxiety or depression post-surgery. Psychological care ensures these changes are monitored and managed early.
- Supporting long-term habits. Weight regain can happen without strong mental strategies. Therapy helps maintain healthy habits, prevent relapse, and build confidence over time.
Evidence supports psychological care
Psychological assessment and support are widely recognised as important components of multidisciplinary bariatric care in Australia. Research suggests that addressing psychological, behavioural and emotional factors can be beneficial. Psychological support may benefit adjustment to treatment, adherence to recommended lifestyle changes, and overall wellbeing.
- A 2012 meta-analysis and systematic review Preoperative assessment of patients seeking weight loss surgery showed that pre-op psychological evaluation identifies at-risk patients and improves adherence to lifestyle changes.
- A 2023 large randomised trial Efficacy of Telephone-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Weight Loss, Disordered Eating, and Psychological Distress After Bariatric Surgery found that post-operative therapy was associated with reductions in disordered eating, depression and anxiety, compared with usual care. While short-term weight loss outcomes were similar between groups, the findings highlight that psychological support may improve emotional wellbeing and behavioural regulation after surgery – factors considered important for longer-term adjustment and adherence to lifestyle recommendations.
Mind and body go hand in hand
At Mackay & McLeod, we strongly encourage all patients to work with a psychologist throughout their bariatric journey. We work closely with experienced psychologists who understand the unique needs of weight loss surgery patients. Whether you’re weeks away from surgery or months into recovery, it’s never too early, or too late, to care for your mental wellbeing.
Weight loss surgery is a powerful tool, but it’s only one part of the puzzle. The real transformation happens when your mindset, habits, and health align. A psychologist isn’t just part of the team, they’re a crucial guide in your journey toward a healthier, happier life.
Learn more about your care options
If you’re preparing for surgery or facing new challenges post-op, we can connect you with a trusted psychologist to help you thrive – inside and out.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult your doctor or specialist for individual recommendations.
