My name is Jennifer. I am 33 yrs old. I am from Springdale, AR. I was referred to my local bariatric surgeon by my neurosurgeon. My weight is killing my already broke down spine. I have had 5 back surgeries and their is nothing else they can do for my spine. I am just getting started with whole process of getting approved for the surgery. I have excellent family support. I am just very nervous about the whole process of getting to the surgery. The one thing I don't have to worry about in my insurance not paying, cause I called them and I am covered. I am really worried about the psychological exam. What is that like? I know I am ready for the commitment it takes after the surgery. If I would of had this opportunity a couple of years ago, I definitely wouldn't of been able to commit. I am ready to get out from under the diabetes medicines and the cpap machine. I want to take control of my health, I just need some help doing so. I want to be able to exercise without hurting. I guess now I realize I am not enjoying life, I am just living. I don't want to suffer the weight related issues my dad eventually died from. I had to watch him go thru multiple open heart surgeries and dialysis as a little kid and I lost him when I was 10. I fear I am may going to down that same road.

Jennifer

Welcome and congrats on your new life.

As for the psychological exam it is easy. Just answer the questions honestly and don't try to outsmart it.

I agree--the psychological exam was no big deal. Mine took less than 30 minutes. I have heard some people have to do long questionnaires and such, but I have yet to hear anyone get denied by the psychiatrist. I'm sure you'll be fine!!

Oh! During the exam, he wanted to see if I had realistic expectations about the surgery, what it entailed, and the changes I would need to make for it to work.

Jennifer,

I saw your post on the Arkansas thread. We both are going to Dr. Roller he is an excellent Surgeon.

He did my surgeries for appendix and gall bladder. His specialty is Bariatric surgery and people come from all over the country to go to him so you are in Great hands!!! I go to my last Nutrition appt Tues. I have met my insurance weight loss requirement. I plan to have my surgery in June. I am waiting till then due to my work schedule. I used to live in Springdale now I live in Siloam Springs. The psych appt is no big deal it was several pages of questions and then about an hour with the Psychologist. They ask you questions about your goals and what you believe the surgery will do for you. They want to make sure you have realistic expectations. You will do fine!!!

The physc exam is just speaking with the psychologist and they ask you questions but really all they are doing is seeing if you completely understand the surgery and if you have realistic expectations and also to see if you have any eating disorders.. I had to fill out a questionaire that seemed to never end but its not bad at all and she told me after we talked I would definitely pass! Good luck Hon!!!