Obesity and being clinically overweight are terms used when someone’s weight is at a level that presents a risk to health. Whilst obesity is seen as a ‘disease’ in its own right, the impact it can contribute to other health conditions was highlighted when physical complications emerged in patients who were considered obese and who were affected by the SARS-CoV2 virus. Unfortunately, society’s focus on obesity and the need to lose weight to stay healthy has placed considerable pressure and worry on an already stressed group of individuals. That’s why campaigns such as Obesity Awareness Week are so important in helping to break the stigma.

Even the term obesity has negative associations in some parts of society since individuals with obesity experience stigma from family and peers, educational settings, work settings and even from some health providers. 

Popular and erroneous views about weight contribute to stigma since there is a belief that if people ate less and were more active, they would be less overweight. This is simplifying a complex problem since weight is influenced by a range of factors including biological, social and environmental. 

Many people who have experienced being clinically overweight may feel socially awkward or embarrassed, hold negative thoughts about themselves and even avoid putting themselves forward to do things they want to do. For some, mental health may be affected, leading to anxiety disorders, eating disorders and depression. 

The first step to change has got to be societal. We need to ensure that health messaging and services don’t simplify obesity. We all need to be aware of any stigmatising language and continue to create positive role models and portrayals of people with obesity in the media. Educational establishments and work settings should give a voice to individuals with obesity and create an accepting culture. Most importantly, we need to use ‘person-first’ language, particularly in healthcare settings and in campaigns, so that we refer to the person with obesity rather than an obese person. 

Here are some tips to help build your confidence if you are experiencing obesity or being clinically overweight:

  • Choose your friends. Make sure they are positive, open-minded, and appreciative of who you are. This includes the friends you have online and influencers you may choose to follow.  
  • Care for yourself. This means heading in the direction of where you want to get to, even if that means having to be brave and out of your comfort zone. 
  • Be confident in who you are and stop comparing. Comparison diminishes, it never enhances. 
  • Change negative, self-judgemental comments into encouraging ones. Focus on your strengths and do not accept being bullied. Remember, bullies do what they do from a position of weakness. Talk to a mental health professional about supporting yourself to move forward. 

 

For more information on obesity, check out: www.worldobesity.org or www.obesity.org

To talk to someone about eating disorders and supporting yourself to move forward, you can contact charities such as Beat which run helplines and can offer more specific advice and support.