February 2026 Support Group Report

Date: Monday, February 2, 2026

Report

February's Support  Group focused on getting back on track after the New Year, with particular attention to noticing all-or-nothing thinking and how it can pull us away from the life we want after bariatric surgery.

We explored how thoughts like "I've failed", "I should be doing better" or "I'll start again when I'm motivated" can show up—and how, in Acceptance Commitment therapy (ACT) terms, these are thoughts, not rules.

When we get hooked by them, behaviour often becomes more limited. When we step back and notice these thoughts with kindness, we create space to choose differently.

A strong theme was self-compassion and values-based action. Sustainable change doesn't come from self-criticism; it comes from gently reconnecting with what matters (health, energy, family, independence) and taking small, workable steps—even when motivation is low.

Key ACT take-aways:

• You can notice unhelpful thoughts without obeying them
• Kindness helps unhook us from struggle
• Progress is about direction, not perfection
• One small values-based choice is enough to begin again

You don't need to feel ready or motivated.You just need to take the next step in the direction of what matters.

Next Support Group

Date: Monday 2 March

Our next support group will be a patient-driven evening, guided by the topics, questions, and experiences that matter most to you. You're warmly encouraged to come along  and share with like minded people for  support, perspective and  discussion.

I look forward to seeing you.

Dr Michele