Fat Hatred at the Psychiatrist

by Shaker BigDots

[Content Note: Fat hatred.]

Last week I went to my psychiatrist for a regularly scheduled check-up, at which we discuss my anti-depressant medications and whether we should change anything. Because my psychiatrist is a resident, I consult with her for about 20 minutes, then she brings in the supervising doctor, who reiterates everything we went over. I've gone through this process several times over the past few years and had no problems.

This time around, though, was different.

My psychiatrist and I chatted about my medicine, which is working well and doesn't need to be changed. I mentioned to her that I've changed some of my eating habits to include more vegetables and that I've significantly reduced my caffeine intake—actions I've taken, as I told her, to be healthier.

She agreed, then took my blood pressure, a standard procedure, and remarked that it was good. I bristled a bit, because doctors tend to assume I'll have high blood pressure because I'm fat. But my blood pressure and cholesterol are fine. I actually have no health problems related to my fatness.

Anyway, after the blood pressure check, she left to get the supervising doctor, who came in a few minutes later. The doctor discussed my medicine and confirmed that it was working well for me. Then she said, "I hear you are concerned about your weight."

I stared at her. I said, "I didn't say that."

The resident spoke up and said, "Well, being healthy. You talked about being healthier."

I said, "Yes, but that is not the same thing as being concerned about my weight." Being healthy does not (necessarily) equal weight loss.

The supervising doctor retreated from her original remarks, but without apologizing. We discussed my healthier choices. I mentioned my good blood pressure and cholesterol readings. She asked if I was getting regular exercise. I replied that I was.

She then said that we might think about reducing Medicine A in the future, because it can cause weight gain. I said I was perfectly happy with the current dosage and did not want to reduce it.

We exchanged a few more words and then the appointment was over.

I walked out of there stunned. I've been fortunate that I haven't encountered such rank fat hatred from doctors before. It ruined my day. It makes me want to not return to that resident or that supervising doctor. I don't know what I'll do in three months, when I'm due for another appointment. My psychiatrist is supposed to help relieve mental anguish, not cause it.