Weight-Loss Surgery: The Psychological Screening Interview

Obesity is a national health emergency in the United States. Surgical weight reduction is one of the ways many Americans are choosing to deal with the battle of the bulge. Because of the high demand for bariatric surgery (gastric bypass and lap-band are two of these procedures), new protocols are being established to help assure the safety and appropriateness of these medical procedures.

Many medical tests are required before a patient is given the go-ahead for this surgery. The psychologist has become an integral part of the medical team. Both insurance companies and surgeons require a psychological consultation for each patient they are screening for bariatric surgery. Because eating issues are complicated and the emotional stability of the patient
is important, the psychologist helps assess the patient’s readiness for surgery.

For those patients seeking this pre-surgery consultation, you can expect the
psychological consultation to address these important areas of mental health:

1. Details of the patient’s personal history such as family background,education, marital status, home situation, work history, and current living situation.
2. A complete and detailed history of the patient’s obesity history, from childhood to the present, including any and all efforts the patient has made to lose weight. This would include any history of eating disorders or any issues or problems with weight and eating.
3. Information from the patient about their exploration of bariatric surgery as an option. What do they know about the procedure? Do they understand the risks of the surgery? Does the patient realize that they will be making life-long changes in their eating? Have they thought about the details of the diet, exercise program, and vitamin regimen they will use?
4. A complete and detailed psychiatric history, including any treatment the patient may have received for psychological problems, current psychotropic medications, and current psychological and/or marriage and family problems. Having a psychological or emotional problem does not necessarily keep a patient from having the surgery, as long as they are being adequately treated. This history includes past substance abuse and current alcohol,tobacco, or drug use.
5. An assessment of the patient’s personality characteristics and emotional resources which indicate that the patient will be compliant with post-surgery instructions and will be able to deal with the trauma of major surgery and subsequent recovery.
6. What are the current stressors in the patient’s life, and what kind of support will the patient have during and after the surgery? What are the patient’s expectations and fears? Would the patient consider psychological help if they needed it as they go through their weight loss?

Some psychologists may use objective psychological tests to help
with the evaluation of a bariatric patient. Most, however, use their
professional skills and training in a clinical interview to make sure
the patient is able to understand and make informed choices about his or her
health.

The primary focus of the consultation is to assess whether this
patient is emotionally stable and psychologically capable of
undergoing the surgery. While it is not possible to predict with
absolute certainty that an individual will sail through such a
procedure with no emotional complications, the psychologist can
provide valuable insights that contribute to the overall assessment
of a patient for bariatric surgery.

Jennifer J. Sowle, PhD is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family
Therapist. She is also an AASECT Certified Sex Educator and Sex Therapist. Dr.
Sowle has a private psychological practice in Northern Michigan.

Dr. Sowle’s website, http://here-to-listen.com, is an informational site which explores
psychological issues like: Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and
Eating Disorders. She also gives information on Relationships, such as conflict
resolution, managing family finances, communication techniques, divorce, parenting,
and sexuality. She helps in talking to your children about sex and sexual abuse and
also addresses stress, anger management, and gay and lesbian issues.

Two regular features: “Ask Dr. J.” and “Can This Relationship Be Saved?” change
frequently. The Advice Blog keeps you up to date on these changing features and
gives a heads up to new information coming up on the site.

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