Hey everyone,

I am a 28 yo F who had gastric bypass over two years ago and lost approx. 120lbs from 299lbs to 178lbs. I was told by my therapist before surgery that I had eating disorder behaviors and thoughts and should see a specialist but I refused and thought I would be ok after losing weight. My thoughts, obsessions, and food restriction has increased after surgery where it’s all I can think about. I had a few scary situations with passing out and finally agreed to see the Eating Disorder (ED) specialist. She immediately told me I needed a higher level of care for atypical anorexia and recommended partial hospitalization. I have a very demanding job that I can’t possibly take time off from so I went to therapy and a dietitian weekly for a little over a month but as soon as I would eat “normal” scheduled meals I gained 4-8lbs and would freak out and not eat. I agreed to be assessed by a treatment center who recommended the partial program but agreed to let me try the intensive outpatient treatment that is 3 nights a week due to my work situation. I start this Monday and I am just so scared about how much weight I am going to gain trying to follow the doctors orders as well as if it’s even going to help. Had anyone else experienced this?

Bariatric Surgery patients represent a surprisingly increasing number of patients in inpatient treatment for anorexia according to John's Hopkins.

Yes, anorexia and other eating disorders are a serious risk for our population.

Yes, treatment....including eating more.... will be a help even if you gain a little weight to find a managable maintenance level of calories.

Passing out is incredibly dangerous and can kill you or others if you drive. It's also incredibly unsafe on stairs, around heavy equipment, and in the company of unsafe people. Being that low on nutrition is hard on your body, particularly your heart. You can do permenant damage in short order.

Take your condition seriously. Your very demanding job and thinner body are of no use to you if you imperil your safety, health, and eventually your life. (it's tough on relationships, too)

Wishing you the very best.

Edited June 27, 20215 yr by Creekimp13