I would like to do some sort of mental exercises... self exploration... something... to help mentally prepare myself for post op life. Does anyone have any good resources? books (not really books about the surgery, something that is more directed at helping mentally prepare for everything)? Web sites?

I'm just afraid of the things that might happen to me mentally post op.

In my experience with the lap band it is on the job training for the mental aspect. It is getting easier as time goes by. You could stop drinking soda's now. You will learn to eat & enjoy other foods. I do not crave sweets now, unless I am on my cycle. In the beginning it is hard. Once the doctor clears you to eat normal foods you will experiment with different foods to see what agrees with your band. I do not know of any self help books, but maybe go to a support group and talk with others who have already been through the process. Best Wishes, you can do it!

I went to my steps class, last week, and they recommended a bunch of books, One I am interested in getting post op is: The emotional First Aid kit, A practical Guide to Life After Bariatric Surgery, Good for reading pre op also. Available at Amazon.com

Louise

thank you, thank you, thank you for asking the question. I will read the postings and maybe someone can provide us with something.....

I'm a bit worried about life after surgery and keeping up my end of the deal.....

I have to tell you girl, I learned a lot from your site, or postings. I thank you, I am so new to this, this is the first chat experience I have had. I came to this site looking for support for banding. I am suppost to have it in Jan. 2009. Best of luck to us both. I have some of the same worries you are expressing... Thanks for sharing... Pidgekk