Before weight loss surgery we are required to face, what is for most of us, an extremely intimidating interview or evaluation with a psychiatrist. 

Why? Do they think we're crazy?

No...certainly not! Even though our sanity depends on a "little craziness" sometimes, it's doesn't mean there is anything to fear.

Obesity comes with it's share of years of being judged unfairly by others as undisciplined, with no self-control and maybe a little "crazy." But really, we're no different that the rest of the world. Our "crazies" just happen to be more obvious than some.  

By that I mean...we just happen to turn to food for comfort and to cover a life-time of hurts, stresses, heartaches, pain and low self-worth, it doesn't mean we're crazy or any different than any one else. 

It's really a starting point to help us identify life's stresses and how we can better manage them. Just as we have physical tests to help determine if we are ready physically, this evaluation is to determine our mental preparedness. 

Weight loss surgery is a lifestyle change, which requires determination to change. Weight loss surgery is as much about "mindset" as physical compliance.

These professionals are there to help you return to health, they understand underlying issues that turn us toward our addictions and can offer solution toward healing. Rarely do these interviews result in decline of surgery, it should be a tool to help us find our way to health.

It will be helpful to have a plan for dealing with stress before the interview. 

Asking yourself questions beforehand will help prepare you for the interview. 

• Do I understand the lifetime commitment I are making to compliance with diet and exercise?
• Am I  willing and ready to change my mind?
• Do I have a plan to deal with stress?
• Am I prepared with a plan to deal with addictive behaviors?
• Do I have a plan that will hep me not to transfer these behaviors over to other vices?
• Am I willing to get to the root of "what's eating me"?

 This interview is for your benefit, you're going to make it through just fine...Yes, you can!