How Will You Friends React After Your Weight Loss?
As I am writing this blog, I am still unsure whether I have changed since my gastric bypass surgery, or if it has been the attitude of some of my friends? The jury is still out and the answer may be simple – friendships change.
I was always the “fat friend”, “the life and the soul” the “comfortable friend”. Now I am literally half the person I used to be – but is this just in the physical sense?
I have changed. I am more confident in the way I present myself. My wardrobe has been replaced and I take a greater sense of pride in my appearance. My zest for life has been boosted since my weight loss, but I have also had several episodes of paranoia when it has come to my friends’ reactions. Please learn from this, and try to see it from their point of view. Yes, they will call each other and talk about how you look. Yes – they will express their concerns about the sudden weight loss. Some may even be a bit jealous. Does this sound familiar?
What you have to remember is - Weight loss is rapid after a Gastric Bypass and the first time a friend sees you – it comes as a big shock (and one that they are not quite prepared for). It is a natural reaction to a big change. The majority of my friends have been very supportive and inquisitive, but I have lost one or two friendships along the way. I put this down to the green eyed monster and to their own lack of confidence. Hey ho –life goes on! I have made new friends along the way and as these do not know the “old me”, I find these newly formed relationships are more evenly matched. They accept me as the way I am. It’s great!
The moral of this story is – When we decide to have bariatric surgery , we are the winners. We decide to take back control. The decision is ours - and ours alone. It’s a brave choice and unfortunately, not everyone has the courage to change unhappy parts of their lives.
*Disclaimer: Please note that weight loss surgery results and benefits are unique to each individual and in such The Bariatric Group cannot guarantee specific weight loss goals as results for each surgery can vary. If you have any questions or would like to know more about weight loss surgery please contact our expert team.
