almost 2 years post op and suffering from alcohol addiction

[Realwomenhavecurves]

As of April 14 I will be 2 years post op. I traveled to Mexico alone and had my sleeve done at the obesity control center in Tiujuana.
Dr Ortiz and his staff were wonderful, the facility was impecable, no complaints. All went well the first year hit the gym ate healthy and reached my goal weigt in no time. Prior to surgery I was an occasional drinker but on those occasions went at it hard. A year post surgery I was having a glass of wine a night then 2. Two years out a large bottle a day sometimes more. I have even gained half the weight back whats worst is that I also struggle with food. Most times I have no desire to eat at all and when I do its never more than a cup full. I also have no motivation to get to the gym, I am usually hung over from the alcohol the night before. I saw a therapist for 4 months and had a wonderful experience with it, it helped me with every aspect of my life accept this one. I have always been a strong willed and strong minded person but I am losing control of this situation. I am now desperate and very disappointed with myself. Has any one else experienced anything like this? By the way one of my coworkers had gastric by pass surgery almost 3 years ago, she is struggling from alcohol and prescription drug abuse ( sleeping pills) as she now has severe eating and sleeping issues.

[Truffles]

How challenging. I'm sorry you are going through this.

Here's an interesting recovery program which is not based on the 12-step program that AA uses.

Self Help Addiction Recovery | SMART Recovery®

[bluesky]

You definitely need to talk to someone, reach out to someone locally and keep trying till someone listens and helps. Its not about being strong willed, strong minded - most of us here would say we are that too, yet here we are, needing the help of surgery to stop ourselves overeating! You have a problem and you need the right key - your therapist may have been great but obviously is not the answer to this issue. Maybe you should join a group? What I personally think is - you have tried this hard and come so far, it would be a shame to give up at this point. Keep knocking on doors - and definitely check out websites online as there is a tonne of information out there to support you. All the best

[BigDogMom]

I'm so sorry to hear that you're struggling like this! I definitely agree that you need to find a professional to go speak to.
It does actually make sense that people who clearly have an addictive trait in their personality (obesity caused by food addiction), would find a new outlet after bariatric surgery. I know that doesn't make it any easier to deal with though. Just do the best you can, and for sure reach out for help near you.

[MBL]

I am sorry that you are going through this, but apparently it is pretty common. I hope you find the help that you need.Alcohol abuse after weight loss surgery? | Harvard Gazette

[Fantadiallo]

I am so sorry to hear about your situation. I actually read a study about gastric surgery patients more likely to be addicted to alcohol. Please stay strong and keep getting assistance with this issue.

[wrightstuff12]

I commend you on your honesty. I am sure you are not alone on this forum, but maybe other people are not ready to be as honest as you. You know what you have to do, and that is to seek professional help. Since your bariatric Dr. is in Mexico, talk to your regular physician. Maybe they can refer you to a counselor that has experience with bariatric related alcohol problems. I wish you all the luck in the world

[Realwomenhavecurves]

Thank you, I have never heard of a non 12 step program but I found one right in the city that I live .. Literally around the corner from my home .. Thank you

[Realwomenhavecurves]

Thank you, I feel better just by admitting it ...

[Realwomenhavecurves]

I hope you all can read this I've been trying to reply to you all and thank you for your well wishes and encouragement .. Not sure if I'm doing this right ..

[Hev]

Thank you for opening your heart and sharing what must be very hard for you to deal with.
Life is never black and white.
We all eat and drink for reasons other than being hungry. Having had some serious issues myself about my childhood - I found a good counsellor it took several before I found the right one.
Please try to find someone to help you as you have done so well and you don't want to gain it all back.
Sending you hugs and love
Hev

[OAM]

I have no advise to offer, but sending you my thoughts and prayers!!

[Jrzyguy]

Please get to an AA meeting right away. AA changed my partner's life. There are people there from every walk of life, all with unique stories. Just like we use the folks on this board for support and information, the people in AA are in similar situations and can be of support with alcohol. The fact that you've gone through a sleeve shows that you have the desire within you to change your life. Let others who know what you're going through help you. Stay strong and be well.

[Titinc]

Please seek out counseling as you definitely need the help of a professional. The important part is that you find a counselor that you feel comfortable with. Someone you can reach out to in your time of need. Always remember we are here for you and will be here for you throughout your journey to a successful recovery. Wishing you the very best always.

[katiem]

I've actually worried about this. I have a drink or two every night, just a beer with dinner or a hot chocolate with Baileys, but I'm worried that I'll move from food to liquor. Maybe I should start seeing a counselor now... Funny thing is that I've worked at rehabs so I know better, but still. Thank you for sharing. I'm praying for you!