Have you ever overcome one addiction only to find yourself struggling with another compulsive behavior?

Welcome to another episode of the BariNation Podcast! We know that after bariatric surgery, many of us experience profound changes—not just in our bodies, but in our relationships with food, alcohol, shopping, and other behaviors. That’s why we’re diving into the topic of process/transfer addiction with addiction therapist Sarah Smith. Together, we explore how addiction can evolve after surgery, the triggers to watch for, and why seeking support from your surgeon or a therapist can be a game-changer. Sarah also shares the bottom line on early prevention, giving us the tools to recognize and address these patterns before they take control. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (00:32) The process of addiction after bariatric surgery
• (03:04) What is transfer addiction?
• (05:26) What triggers should you look for
• (10:32) Seek the help of your surgeon or a therapist
• (13:33) Sarah leaves listeners with the bottom line of early prevention

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• After surgery, some individuals unconsciously replace food addiction with other compulsive behaviors, such as excessive shopping, alcohol, drug use, or even exercise. This shift happens because their primary coping mechanism (food) is no longer an option, leading them to seek alternatives.
• Key red flags include increased reliance on substances or activities for emotional regulation (e.g., suddenly drinking more alcohol, excessive online shopping, or compulsive exercise). People may also notice escalating negative consequences, such as financial strain, guilt, or stress when unable to engage in the behavior.
• If someone notices these behaviors in themselves, they should reach out to their surgeon, a therapist specializing in addiction, or supportive communities like BariNation. Talking about concerns in a shame-free environment can lead to healthier coping strategies and support for managing post-surgical challenges.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!    

OTHER RESOURCES: 

Alcohol Use Disorder can impact anyone on a bariatric journey. We can help in BariNation in private and confidential ways.. Connect and learn with Sarah in the BariNation Membership Community, where she leads an Addiction Transfer Support Group every Monday at 4 pm PST / 7 pm EST and General Support every other Friday at 6 pm PST/ 9 pm EST

Learn more at https://barination.mn.co

GUEST RESOURCES:

Changes in Alcohol Use after Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Predictors and Mechanisms https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7057935/

Why Drinking Problems Develop After Gastric Bypass Surgery

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/why-drinking-problems-develop-after-weight-loss-surgery

Increased Admission for Alcohol Dependence After Gastric Bypass Surgery Compared With Restrictive Bariatric Surgery https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/fullarticle/1679649

BIOGRAPHY: 

Throughout her career, Sarah Smith, MHR, MSW, LADC, ICAADC, RCSWI, MCAP, CBHCMS-A/C, CRPS,  has been dedicated to advocating for individuals in recovery, advancing behavioral health initiatives, and promoting harm reduction strategies. Her passion for this work is rooted in both professional expertise and lived experience, driving her commitment to creating accessible, evidence-based solutions that empower individuals and communities. She believes in the power of collaboration, education, and policy development to break down barriers and foster lasting change. Whether through program development, advocacy, or direct service, she strives to contribute to a system that prioritizes dignity, equity, and compassionate care for all.

ABOUT:

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