Every day in my clinic, I meet patients who are struggling—not just with their weight, but with the burden it places on their lives. As a doctor, I see beyond the numbers on the scale. I see their fears, their frustrations, and their desire for change. Obesity is not just a medical condition; it’s a daily battle, and I want to share some of the real-life challenges my patients face, along with solutions that can truly help.
Beyond the Numbers: The Real-Life Scenarios I Witness as A Healthcare Professional Everyday
Obesity isn’t just about excess weight. It affects self-esteem, mobility, relationships, and even professional opportunities. Let me share a few patient stories that illustrate these struggles.
The Social Stigma
Ramesh, a 42-year-old IT professional, confided in me, “Doctor, I dread office gatherings. The minute I enter, I feel the stares. People assume I’m lazy just because of my size.” Despite being a top performer in his company, he constantly felt judged based on his appearance rather than his abilities.
My Approach: Alongside a structured exercise and dietary plan, I encouraged him to shift his focus from external validation to his well-being. Over time, he lost weight, but more importantly, he learned to redefine his self-worth beyond his body size.
The Physical Struggles
Meera, a 35-year-old mother of two, didn’t come to me because she wanted to look slimmer. She came because she couldn’t keep up with her children. “I want to be there for them,” she said, “but I feel like my body is failing me.”
My Approach: Instead of overwhelming her with unrealistic goals, I suggested simple lifestyle modifications—playing in the park with her kids for short durations, mindful eating, and gradual stamina-building exercises. Within months, she felt more energetic and capable. Sometimes our goals seem unachievable because we are overwhelmed with the entire process. The best way is to make small changes one at a time.
The Emotional Struggles
Aakash, a 28-year-old entrepreneur, struggled with depression and emotional eating. Years of bullying had left him with a deep sense of shame about his body. “I eat because I feel low, but eating makes me feel worse. It’s a cycle I don’t know how to break.”
My approach: In today’s competitive world, stress has become an unavoidable part of life. Emotional eating is one way people attempt to manage stress, but it often leads to serious health issues. Therapy, combined with a structured weight-loss plan, helped Aakash identify his emotional triggers. Over time, he regained control over his eating habits and discovered healthier ways to cope with stress
The Responsibility Struggles
Suman, a 50-year-old single mother, spent her entire life putting her family’s needs before her own. “Doctor, I never had time for myself. My kids’ education, my parents’ medical bills, running the household—where was the time to think about my health?” Years of neglect had led to severe obesity, joint pain, and early signs of diabetes.
Then there’s Arjun, a 45-year-old shop owner who had been the sole breadwinner for his family since his father’s passing. “Doctor, I always thought—first, I need to make sure my family is secure. My health? That could wait.” But over time, his health issues escalated to a point where he was unable to work as efficiently, and it became clear that neglecting himself had put more strain on his family.
My Approach: Sadly, many people view taking care of themselves as being selfish. This mindset needs to change . I counseled them. We started small. I encouraged both Suman and Arjun to prioritize at least 30 minutes a day for themselves—whether it was a short walk, a few stretches, or even mindful eating. Over time, they realized that taking care of their health wasn’t selfish; it was necessary to continue supporting their families in the long run.
A Doctor’s Advice: Practical Ways to Overcome These Challenges
Obesity is not a failure of willpower; it’s a complex health issue that requires a holistic approach. Here’s what I tell my patients:
- Start Small, Stay Consistent
Don’t aim for rapid weight loss. Instead, focus on sustainable changes—switch to healthier snacks, take short walks daily, and gradually reduce sugar intake. Avoid shortcuts and weight loss hacks, as they often do more harm than good. Extreme dieting, detox teas, or excessive exercise can lead to nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss, and even a slowed metabolism, making long-term weight management even harder. Remember, sustainable progress is far more valuable than quick fixes. - Seek Support
You don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s a doctor, a support group, or a fitness buddy, having the right people around you can make all the difference. - Understand Emotional Eating
If stress or sadness triggers overeating, try alternative coping mechanisms like journaling, meditation, or engaging in a hobby. - Find Joy in Movement
Exercise should not feel like a punishment. Whether it’s dancing, swimming, or playing a sport, find an activity that makes you happy so it becomes a habit. Exercise releases “the happy hormones” like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. - Consider Medical Interventions When Necessary
In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough. Medications or bariatric surgery can be options, but only when medically advised and carefully planned. - Prioritize Yourself Without Guilt
Many people, especially those with families, believe that taking time for their own health is selfish. The truth is, the healthier you are, the better you can care for those who depend on you. Set boundaries, allocate time for self-care, and remember that your health matters.
Obesity isn’t just about losing weight; it’s about reclaiming your life. If you are struggling, please know that you are not alone. Small steps lead to big changes, and as your doctor, I am here to help you on this journey.
If you’ve faced similar challenges or have questions, feel free to share your thoughts. You can book a free consultation with our experts and they will help you in creating a roadmap that helps you systematically reach your health goals.
Visit us at varenyahealthcare.co.in
