Psychological changes among weight loss injection users compared with bariatric surgery patients in Saudi Arabia

To assess and evaluate the mental health and psychological changes in weight loss injection users and bariatric surgery.

A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2022 to December 2022. A self-administered questionnaire was given among participants using social media platforms. The questionnaire included socio-demographic characteristics, weight-loss-related characteristics, General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) to measure anxiety, and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to measure depression experienced by the patients.

Of the 721 patients, 73.9% were females, and 30.1% were aged between 30 to 39 years old. The prevalence of patients who underwent weight loss by surgery and injection was 47.7% and 41.2%, respectively. Overall, symptoms of anxiety and depression were detected in 19.7% and 24%, respectively. Independent risk factor of anxiety and depression was the symptom of the psychiatric disorder prior to surgery, while the independent protective factor for anxiety and depression was older age. Depression was higher in weight loss injection users.

Nearly one-quarter of the study population experienced anxiety or depression following weight loss treatment. Weight loss treatment by injections increases the risk of depression. However, improved self-confidence, mood, and relationships with family and friends were some of the positive changes exhibited by the patients after undergoing weight loss treatment. Appropriate psychiatric evaluation is necessary before and after weight loss intervention.