Did you know that obesity affects almost 1 billion people worldwide! There is also a direct link between obesity and developing mental disorders such as depression.

The good news is that help is available to you!

The first thing you should do is to adopt healthy lifestyle choices such as a healthy diet and getting exercise. You can talk to one of our doctors who will help you develop a safe plan for losing weight.

One of our mental health professionals can also help you deal with the emotional side of obesity, such as stress, depression or experiences that caused you to gain weight or prevent you from losing weight.

Here are some suggestions to consider in helping you take action against obesity:

• Think about what you eat and why. Don’t fall into the trap of eating because you need comfort!
• Cut down on portions while eating the same foods. You’ll soon find that the smaller portions are just as satisfying! Your mood will positively increase while you are being treated for obesity, stopping negative thinking in its tracks!
• Losing weight is always easier when you have the support of friends and family! Use the “buddy system.” Ask a friend or family member to be “on-call” for moral support when you’re tempted to stray from your new lifestyle!
• Don’t obsess over “bad days” when you can’t help eating more. Reach out to one of our mental health professionals who can help you to formulate an action plan for managing these uncomfortable feelings.

If you feel you’re struggling emotionally to beat obesity, reach out to our Mental Health Services at 014 590 1700 or 080 000 6942.