You don’t need another facebook group.
You need a safe space that offers connection, compassion, and consistency.
Join the Bariatric Mel Community
A private, distraction-free space where post-op life stops feeling like a solo sport
We talk mindset, regain, identity, and very messy middle in between
Access to trauma-informed support
Opportunities to join “Founders Rounds” psycho-educational online course
Why this space exists
Let’s be brutally honest for a second.
The surgery was supposed to fix everything, right?
The body changed. The weight dropped. The labs looked better; and yet…somewhere between protein shakes and follow-up visits, nobody prepared you for the emotional hangover.
No one explained that your nervous system didn’t get the memo about the weight loss.
That the parts of you who learned to survive through food, people-pleasing, or perfectionism would panic the moment your old coping tools disappeared.
The world would cheer your “discipline” while you quietly grieved the person you used to be.
This community exists because the after-care shouldn't stop at vitamins and macros. It’s for the ones who keep asking:
“Why do I still feel broken when I did everything right?”
“Why does confidence feel like a costume I can’t zip up?”
Why does every compliment make me want to hide?”
We’re not here to perform wellness.
We’re here to rebuild safety, in your mind, your body, and your story.
Led by trauma-informed voices who know that willpower isn’t healing and shame isn’t motivation.
Inside you will not find diet rules or lifestyle policing.
You will get language for what your system’s been screaming, tools that regulate instead of punish, and community that won’t flinch when you tell the truth.
FAQs
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FAQs *
What is the bariatric Lounge?
The Bariatric Lounge is a trauma-informed, private online community hosted by Bariatric Mel | Melinda Schuster. it is a safe, shame-free space for people navigating the emotional and mental side of bariatric surgery; long after the “before & after” photos fade.
Is this the same as a FaCebook Group?
Nope. This space lives completely off social media. That means no distractions, no diet ads, no drama, and NO algorithm deciding what’s worth your attention. Just intentional conversations, grounded support, and members who crave connection, healing, and success.
Do I have to pay to join?
No, the Lounge is currently free to join. You will need to confirm your email before you can get access to the private community.
Who is this community for?
It’s for anyone who’s had bariatric surgery and realizes the real work starts after the weight comes off. Whether you’re two months or two years post-op, this is your place to reconnect your mind and body without shame.
Is this therapy?
No, this is therapy-informed coaching and community support, not therapy or medical advice. The Lounge is where you learn, reflect, and connect with others doing the deeper emotional work of post-op life.
What happens after I sign up?
After you enter your email, you’ll get a quick confirmation email from Bariatric Mel. Once confirmed, you’ll be redirected straight to our private community, the Bariatric Lounge” to introduce yourself and explore the space.
Still have questions?
Email us at mel@bariatricmel.com
Or join and see what it feels like to be understood again.