GLP-1 and gambling reduction — what worked for you?

hyun_seoul 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 (269 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.

After (179 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: 84 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.

nick_newbie said:

One year anniversary on mental health — reflections: What I wish I'd known: the side effects are temporary, the benefits compound over time, protein…

Thank you — that is the clearest version of this I have read, and I have read a lot of them. I will report back once I have actually tried it.

hyun_seoul said:

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

Anxiety increase on mental health: counterintuitive, but losing weight rapidly triggered anxiety for me. Change — even positive change — is stressful. I was anxious about regaining weight.

This is more common than people admit. A therapist who specializes in weight management has been invaluable. Don't neglect the mental health side of this journey.

DadBodDave 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…

Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 80 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes. "Phantom fat" is a real phenomenon.

My therapist specializes in body image issues with weight loss patients. She says it can take 12-18 months for your brain's body map to update. In the meantime: take progress photos (your eyes lie but cameras don't), try on old clothes, and be patient with yourself.

Moderator note: reminder that nothing in this thread is medical advice, and that clinical claims need a source. No action needed from anybody.