Success after bariatric surgery depends on you and your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. One way many people find success is through weight loss surgery support groups. Meeting with like-minded people who are on the same journey as you is a great way to stay motivated. Here are some of the benefits of weight loss surgery support groups.
Weight Loss Surgery Support Group Offers More Success
Patients who attend support groups are more likely to be successful than those who don’t. These meetings are a great way to learn, meet new people, share information and motivation, and more. Most support groups cover nutritional, medical and social issues related to weight loss surgery.
Validation
Patients often feel overwhelmed after a surgery. It can be tough transition and it leaves patients with many questions. Support groups are a great way to find the answers to all the practical questions, as well as the validation most patients are seeking. Along with answers, patients attend the support group to feel good about their choices, gain new insight, perspective and real-life experiences from people who have already been through the post-operative phase.
Education 
A great support group will provide more than social and emotional support. Education is a large part of weight loss surgery. Support groups provide a great opportunity for learning, often featuring presentations and discussions. Some groups will have guest speakers as well. This could be professionals like psychologists, dietitians or fitness instructors. Additionally, some guest speakers provide information on cooking, grooming, dating and more. Support groups provide a great, well-rounded foundation of knowledge which is crucial for long-term success.
Weight Loss Surgery Support Group Provides Motivation
In a weight loss journey, we can sometimes feel misunderstood, afraid, or alone. Surrounding yourself with people who understand your decision to undergo surgery, as well as what it is like to deal with the various emotional, physical and relationship changes that occur on the journey is crucial. Support groups offer a safe place to meet and socialize with compassionate, understanding, and encouraging people.
Celebrating YOU!
As you progress on your journey and begin to notice changes, you may want the opportunity to share and celebrate that success with others. Support groups are a great way to do that. Support groups provide a time to share your success and receive the recognition that your achievement deserves.
Rededication
While some patients have weight loss surgery and never look back, others may slip back into old habits, regain some weight, and become very discouraged. If this happens, a support group is a great way to recenter, refocus and get back on track with your health. It also provides a level of accountability that helps many people.
Weight Loss Surgery Support Groups Near Me
If you are looking for connection, education, motivation, celebration or rededication, a support group is the way to go. Maryland Bariatrics is happy to partner with Adventist Shady Grove for pre- and post-op support, as well as Holy Cross Germantown for post-op support. To learn more, please contact Maryland Bariatrics today.
