Abstract

Author(s): Paulo GONZÁLEZ SEP

Introduction. Obesity is a worldwide problem, and there are several genetic, metabolic and, social factors that can increase the risk of suffering it, however, psychological aspects play an important role in the development of the disease. It is known that bariatric surgery has been a method that improves the quality of life in patients with obesity and even more so when intervening in the area of mental health.

Objective. To evaluate which are the most relevant psychological aspects associated with the development of obesity in patients who are candidates for bariatric surgery.

Methodology. It is a study with a quantitative focus, it is a prospective transversal study with a level of descriptive analysis, in a group of 30 women with obesity who are candidates for bariatric surgery. They were evaluated employing a semi-structured interview and instruments that allowed them to identify the existence of anxiety, psychopathological symptoms, somatic symptoms, and positive mental health.

Results. It was identified that, on average, each woman presents 3 pathological symptoms related to mental health as a major depressive episode, suicide risk, life-long anxiety disorders, and generalized anxiety, and that 28.97% of the evaluated population presents trait anxiety. Likewise, 80% of the participants manifested a constant presence of somatic symptoms added to the physiological problems that obesity brings.

Discussion. The women with obesity evaluated present trait anxiety, that is, it is more linked to their personality, and therefore require greater psychological and nutritional accompaniment.

Conclusion. women candidates for bariatric surgery present comorbidity with anxiety, distress, depression, and suicidal risk, so they should have psychological and multidisciplinary care.