Anxiety: “a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.”

Anxiety can present in all different ways including heart racing, shortness of breath, constant worrying, difficulty sleeping, feeling extremely overwhelmed, etc.

Pursuing bariatric surgery can cause some feelings of anxiety. After all, it is a major life event! Shockingly, most patients do not know anxiety can appear and/or increase after surgery as well. After any major change or life event, we can sometimes find ourselves more isolated, overwhelmed by the amount of change, frustrated by not having as much in common with old friends (eating habits, going out, etc.).

Some tips for coping with anxiety:

1. Get outside! Go for a walk or sit in the sun
2. Make sleep a priority
3. Stay connected with friends or family who may offer support
4. Exercise
5. Practice slow, deep breathing exercises
6. Use positive “self-talk”

If you find yourself needing a professional to talk to re: your mental health, please know that you can call our Licensed Independent Social Worker and schedule an appointment for individual counseling at 803-936-3300.