Research shows that regularly attending bariatric support groups is vital to the long-term success of weight-loss surgery (WLS) patients.
Register for Life After Bariatric Surgery Virtual Support Groups
Why are Bariatric Support Groups So Important?
Education
Our support group leaders plan a topic for each meeting to allow patients to share their experiences. This helps patients and other members of the support group. Some of our previous topics include:
- Positive thinking
- Moving more
- Coping with stress
- Mindful eating
- Surviving the holidays
Getting Back on Track
Some WLS patients may have gotten off track and fallen back into old habits. This can cause you to regain the weight lost through surgery. Connecting with other patients and members of our bariatric surgery team can help you lose that regained weight. You will learn that you are not alone in your struggles. Your support group may give you the support and advice you need to get back on track.
Long-Timers
Many WLS patients who had surgery three or more years ago find it important to stay connected. This includes connecting with other patients and our bariatric team. Staying involved with a support group can help you and newer post-op patients. Everyone gains advice and support from the experiences the group shares.
A Safe Place to Share
Bariatric support groups give you a confidential setting where you can feel safe. In this setting, you can share your feelings, thoughts, challenges and victories.
Others who have not chosen this journey may not fully understand your experiences. In a support group, you’ll have a network people who are concerned about your welfare. You’ll find they’re also as delighted as you are by your successes. This combination will make it easier to remain dedicated, especially during particularly trying days or weeks. You’ll be energized by the support of people who understand, and you can share in their triumphs too.
Effectiveness
People who regularly attend a bariatric support group may lose more weight than their peers who do not. In addition, patients who attend a support group may have a better chance of maintaining their new healthy weight.
For all of the reasons listed above, attending a bariatric support group provides support, motivation, education, and inspiration to help you achieve lifelong success.
Attend Our Bariatric Support Groups
University Bariatric Center offers virtual support groups for our post-op patients twice a month. Pre-op patients may attend as an introduction to support group. At the end of each meeting, we offer pre-op patients the opportunity to ask questions.
Spots are limited and registration is required. Please register for each support group meeting separately, to help us correctly register attendance. Once you register, you’ll receive an email from University Bariatric Center one to two days before the support group. This email will give you the information you’ll need to attend online.
Register for Life After Bariatric Surgery Virtual Support Groups
