My name is Marisa. I'm 23 years old and weigh about 300lbs. I have been overweight since I was 10. I hit puberty and everything went downhill from there. I was bullied in school because of my weight. I've never been in a relationship or been on a date. I've never had a first kiss. That's not my reason for considering this surgery. Sure, health is a factor as well as appearance. However, my main reason is to stop my mom from worrying about me. She worries for my health and my life. I want to do this for myself as well as her.

The thing is, I'm terrified. I suffer from severe anxiety and depression. I have trouble handling change. I've tried all sorts of diets and my main reason for failing is that there was nothing stopping me from getting off track except my own guilt. Obviously, that didn't work. If I tried to go off my diet after the surgery, I would get sick, which would get me back on track.

I want to be able to go on roller coasters again. I want to ride my bike, go on hikes, do all the things I can't do now. Yet, even though I know in the long run it will be for the better, I can't help being scared.

I'm going to my PCP tomorrow for a regular check up and I plan on mention this.

Any tips and reassurance you all can give me would be much appreciate.

I've attached a recent photo just in case.

I understand how you feel a lot. I am 34 and more like 370 pounds. It has taken me 9 years to make this decision. I too have anxiety and depression. My parents worry about me. It is okay to make this decision for you and her but please seriously consider counseling before and after surgery. They can help you understand your needs and motivations as well as coping strategies. Best of luck to you! ~angie

It sounds like a good thing to mention it to your physician. Make sure you are remaining compliant with your depression/anxiety treatment, it will probably come up during your psych consult. I think the important thing is to remember the reasoning for the change and embrace the positives and trials you will work through! Good Luck! Lets us know what you decide.

I understand how you feel - change is scary. I had my surgery 3 months ago and I am very happy I did. I only wish I had done it sooner! But do get more counseling before you make your decision. The people who are unhappy after or have bad outcomes are those that are depressed and anxious before, and think the surgery will fix their life. It isn't magic, it is a tool to help you lose weight. You have to do the work, and you have to know it will only fix your size, not your life.

Best of luck to you, whatever you decide!