Therapy is just as important as the medication - my experience — need advice

lucas_SP_BR said:

My mood has been flatter since about month four and I genuinely cannot work out whether that is the drug, the deficit, or the fact that I no longer…

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in:

Before (285 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.

After (185 lbs): Run 3 miles regularly, pain-free, A1C normal, down to 1 medication, bought a swimsuit for the first time in a decade, actually enjoy being photographed.

Total weight lost: 70 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.

COA_Karl said:

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in: Before (285 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications,…

Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 94 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes. "Phantom fat" is a real phenomenon.

My therapist specializes in body image issues with weight loss patients. She says it can take 12-18 months for your brain's body map to update. In the meantime: take progress photos (your eyes lie but cameras don't), try on old clothes, and be patient with yourself.

lucas_SP_BR said:

My mood has been flatter since about month four and I genuinely cannot work out whether that is the drug, the deficit, or the fact that I no longer…

This matches mine closely enough to be worth saying so out loud.

From the other side of the consultation, briefly.

Mood changes on mental health: I want to be transparent — I went through a rough patch emotionally around month 4. Not depression exactly, but a weird flatness. Food was my main coping mechanism and without that, I had to develop new ones.

Therapy has been essential. I'd strongly recommend anyone starting GLP-1 therapy also invest in mental health support. The physical transformation is only half the journey.