Step one for sustainable weight loss: ask for help
It’s essential to understand that needing help to lose weight is not a sign of failure. In fact, it’s a reflection of the complex biological, psychological, and social factors that influence weight and health. Whether through medical support, therapy, or weight-loss programs, seeking help doesn’t mean a person has failed, it means they are seeking the support and resources they need to achieve their health goals in a sustainable way.
The complexity of weight loss
Weight loss is often seen as a straightforward equation: consume fewer calories than you burn, and the kilos will come off. But for many individuals, this equation doesn’t work as simply as it sounds. Several factors can make weight loss challenging, including:
- Genetics: our genes can influence how our bodies store and burn fat. Some people have a genetic predisposition to a slower metabolism or may find it harder to lose weight, no matter how much effort they put into dieting and exercise.
- Hormones: hormones play a significant role in weight regulation. Conditions such as hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or insulin resistance can make weight loss difficult. These hormonal imbalances often require medical intervention to address and manage effectively.
- Psychological factors: emotional eating, past trauma, stress, and mental health conditions like depression or anxiety can all contribute to weight gain or hinder weight loss. In these cases, therapy or counselling may be needed to help individuals address the root causes of their struggles with food and weight.
- Socioeconomic factors: people’s environments, access to healthy food, education, and financial resources also play a role in their ability to maintain a healthy weight. For some, healthy food options may be limited, or they may lack the time or energy to dedicate to physical activity due to their work or family responsibilities.
- Medications: certain medications can lead to weight gain as a side effect. Individuals taking medications for conditions like diabetes, depression, or high blood pressure may find themselves gaining weight, regardless of their lifestyle choices.
Weight loss interventions: a tool for success, not a shortcut
For those who face these complex challenges, weight loss interventions can provide a lifeline. These interventions aren’t about taking the easy way out – they’re about giving individuals the tools and support they need to navigate the obstacles they face in their weight loss journey. There are different types of interventions – for many people, weight loss often involves a combination of two of more of the following:
Medical intervention
Sometimes, medical intervention is necessary to address underlying health conditions that affect weight loss. This could involve:
- Swallowable gastric balloon: for individuals struggling with excess weight who have not had success with traditional weight-loss methods, the swallowable gastric balloon may be an option. It is an innovative non-surgical intervention procedure that delivers fast results while allowing time to implement lasting lifestyle changes.
- Medications for weight loss: there are medications designed to help with weight loss, particularly when lifestyle changes alone are not enough. These medications help to gradually reduce weight by reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, or blocking fat absorption.
Therapeutic support
Sometimes the barriers to weight loss include psychological factors. Therapy can be an essential tool for overcoming emotional or mental obstacles related to food and body image. Therapeutic approaches include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is commonly used to help individuals identify and change unhealthy eating patterns or negative thought processes that contribute to overeating or poor food choices.
- Behavioral counseling: behavioral therapy can help individuals develop healthier habits, set realistic goals, and stay motivated over time.
- Mindful eating therapy: this approach focuses on reconnecting individuals with their hunger cues and eating mindfully, which can help reduce emotional eating and improve the relationship with food.
Support groups and coaching
Sometimes the emotional and social support of others is the most crucial element in a successful weight loss journey. Support groups or working with a weight loss coach can help individuals stay motivated and accountable while also offering encouragement and practical advice. These groups foster a sense of community, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their struggles.
- Group programs: subscription group-based weight loss services can provide structure, accountability, and support. Many participants find comfort in sharing their experiences with others who understand their challenges.
- One-on-one coaching: working with a certified coach who understands nutrition, exercise, and weight loss can help individuals develop a personalised, sustainable plan for their goals.
Compassion and patience are important
It’s critical to approach weight loss with empathy and patience, especially when it requires intervention. We live in a society that often stigmatises those who are overweight or obese, creating an environment of shame and guilt. However, weight loss isn’t a simple, one-size-fits-all solution. Each person has unique challenges and circumstances that affect their ability to lose weight.
People who seek interventions for weight loss are not failures — but individuals who need extra support, whether due to biological factors, mental health concerns, or life circumstances. It’s important to remember that weight loss is not a reflection of a person’s worth, character, or discipline. It’s a process that requires time, effort, and for many people, professional help.
Moving forward without stigma
It’s essential to break down the stigma surrounding weight loss interventions. These interventions, whether medical, therapeutic, or social, are tools that help people achieve better health outcomes. They are not a sign of weakness or failure but rather a step toward empowerment, self-care, and long-term success.
If you’re someone who feels like they need extra help to achieve weight loss goals, know that you’re not alone—and you are not a failure. Seeking support is an act of self-love and determination. It’s about making choices that align with your personal health needs and finding the resources that will best serve you in the journey toward a healthier, happier life.
Remember, there is no shame in needing support. We all face different challenges, and asking for help is a powerful step in achieving the health and happiness you deserve.
When you’re ready to take the first step, give us a call at Brellah Weight Loss Clinic.