pete_nash said:

Mood changes on mental health: I want to be transparent — I went through a rough patch emotionally around month 3.

When to call your doctor about mental health side effects — a reference I wish I'd had:

Call immediately:

• Severe abdominal pain (could be pancreatitis)
• Vision changes (thyroid concern)
• Lump in neck (thyroid nodule)
• Severe vomiting/can't keep fluids down for 24h+

Schedule an appointment:

• Persistent nausea beyond 4 weeks
• Significant hair loss
• Mood changes or depression
• Gallbladder symptoms (RUQ pain after eating)

NeuroNate said:

Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 73 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes.

This answered a question I did not know how to ask. Taking it to my next appointment.

pete_nash said:

Mood changes on mental health: I want to be transparent — I went through a rough patch emotionally around month 3.

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

Before (258 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.

After (193 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: 88 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.

fiona_VT 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…

One year anniversary on mental health — reflections:

What I wish I'd known: the side effects are temporary, the benefits compound over time, protein is more important than I thought, and the mental health aspect needs as much attention as the physical.

What surprised me: how much my relationship with food changed, the cascade of health improvements beyond weight, and how supportive this community is.

What I'd do differently: start therapy earlier, prioritize resistance training from day 1, and stop comparing my progress to others. Everyone's journey is unique.

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