Losing weight can be a long and difficult road. Along the way, it’s good to have a support system. Having someone there for support when you’re first starting out on your weight-loss journey, especially if you’ve tried previously and failed, can make all the difference.
Talking to someone about your struggles can increase your chances of success if you’re going through a challenging emotional time or trying to kick unhealthy habits like excessive snacking, stress smoking, or weekend drinking binges.
Where Can You Find Support?
It might be difficult to lose weight, but according to a study from 2016, having peer support can make it easier to stick to a plan that includes healthy food and frequent exercise.
But which kind of assistance should you pick? Support groups can be found through your weight loss management program in many cases. You can also join a support group online. Additional options are listed below.
Local Peer Support Groups: More weight may be lost by participating in a weight loss program with a group of friends than when doing the same program alone. Having individuals to talk to who are dealing with the same issues as you are essential for long-term success.
Clinic-Based Groups: Joining small weight loss groups at colleges or medical facilities is another choice if you’re looking for professional medical assistance. These support groups are frequently led by psychologists, dietitians, or other weight reduction specialists in clinic settings. You will receive specialized support to assist you in establishing a new, healthy lifestyle over the course of several weeks or months.
Online Forums: Online help forums are a choice that doesn’t necessitate face-to-face interactions. Most forums provide a secure environment where users may seek inspiration, share tales, and make diet and fitness regimens.
Weight Loss Apps: Apps for losing weight can be quite helpful. You can use them to keep track of your workout and calorie intake. Many of them also provide assistance through chat rooms and links on social media.
How to Start Your own Support Group
If everything else fails, using your own initiative might help you achieve your goals. You can create your own support group with just a few easy steps. Start-up ideas for your own support network include:
- Begin a small support group with like-minded friends or family members so that you can work out together, make food plans, and hold each other responsible.
- Create a group on Meetup or Facebook and invite people to join in a post.
- Ask a local organization that helps people lose weight whether they have a support group. If not, offer your services as a group leader.
Summary
Support groups can be just what you need to be successful in your weight loss venture. It’s important to pick the right group for you to ensure you reach your weight loss goals.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4990387/
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/support-increases-weight-loss-success
https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7869402/how-to-start-your-own-weight-loss-program-with-friends/
