A Psychiatric Perspective on Bariatric Surgery and Obesity: What Do Psychiatrists Think and Do? A Cross-Sectional Survey Study.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge levels, attitudes, and referral practices of psychiatrists regarding obesity and bariatric surgery.

Method: In this descriptive, cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was administered to 169 psychiatrists and 75 psychiatry residents across Turkiye. The questionnaire included sections on demographic characteristics, clinical approaches to obesity, sources of information about bariatric surgery, referral tendencies, psychiatric contraindications, and knowledge regarding the postoperative period. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire created by the researchers and administered online via Google Forms.

Results: Most participants were able to define obesity (82.8%) correctly, but a large proportion reported that they do not routinely record patients’ height and weight in clinical practice (71.3%). It was reported by 78.7% of the participants that they had conducted at least one psychiatric evaluation prior to bariatric surgery, and 69.7% stated that they would refer patients for surgery when appropriate indications were present. Psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders were most frequently considered as contraindications, while anxiety and personality disorders were generally not regarded as contraindications. The level of knowledge regarding the conditions that need to be considered after surgery varied, with predominant lack of knowledge regarding nutritional management. Approximately one-third of the participants reported that they do not have sufficient knowledge about obesity treatment.

Conclusion: Although the general attitudes towards bariatric surgery are positive, there were differences in levels of knowledge and some barriers affecting referral to surgery were evident. These findings highlight the need to develop educational programs aimed at enhancing psychiatrists’ knowledge and skills related to bariatric surgery.