Self-Compassion and Mindfulness-Based Training Willingness in Preoperative Bariatric Surgery Patients

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Medicine
• Psychology
• Surgical Patient Care

Background:

• Bariatric surgery requires significant lifestyle changes, including eating behaviors.
• Integrating psychological interventions can enhance patient outcomes and weight management.
• Self-compassion and mindfulness are recognized for their potential in behavior modification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate preoperative bariatric surgery patients' knowledge of and willingness to participate in self-compassion and mindfulness training.
• To assess potential barriers to engaging in these attention-based training methods.
• To determine the feasibility of incorporating these modalities into bariatric programs.

Main Methods:

• Feasibility questionnaires were administered to preoperative bariatric surgery patients.
• Data collected included sociodemographic information and willingness to participate in training.
• Analysis focused on knowledge, confidence, and perceived barriers to self-compassion and mindfulness exercises.

Main Results:

• Patients demonstrated a high level of knowledge regarding self-compassion and mindfulness.
• Participants expressed confidence in performing related exercises with minimal perceived barriers.
• A significant willingness to engage in these training modalities was observed.

Conclusions:

• Self-compassion and mindfulness are holistic approaches suitable for integration into bariatric surgery programs.
• Patients are receptive to noninvasive tools that aid in preoperative weight loss and postoperative weight maintenance.
• These findings support the use of attention-based training for improving bariatric patient care.