Let’s stop shaming weight loss drugs

What stigmas exist?

Weight loss medications are not a miracle cure but a tool. They are not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle – in fact, weight loss drugs only work in conjunction with dietary and lifestyle changes. Nevertheless, weight-related bias can be a barrier for people who are overweight to seek help on their weight loss journey. The media and social media amplify implicit bias by reinforcing existing prejudices and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Teasing or unsolicited comments about weight from family members or friends aren’t helpful either.  

Weight stigma unfairly portrays individuals at higher weights as:  

• Undisciplined: they lack self-control to lose weight. 
• Lazy: taking weight loss medication is seen as ‘cheating’ at weight loss or the ‘easy way out’.  
• Irresponsible: overweight people are not responsible enough to make healthy choices when it comes to their diet and lifestyle.  

These are just some of the stigmas overweight people face, and each person will experience this differently. Research reports weight stigma has increased and that there should be more attention given to combating this problem. Stigmas only contribute to the issues overweight and obese individuals are trying to overcome.  

Many people with overweight or obesity experience weight bias and discrimination in various life stages or situations, such as:  

• At school. 
• At work. 
• In the medical field. 
• In the media: both the traditional media and social media.  

What is weight stigma and how does it spread?

To combat prejudice, we need to understand what weight stigma is and where it comes from. While there is no one cause of weight stigma, research shows that widely held social attitudes and beliefs about the body are contributing factors. Several weight loss medications were initially intended to address other health conditions, such as diabetes. However, doctors and patients later noticed significant weight loss as a side effect. Weight loss medications gained widespread attention when celebrities and influencers started to describe taking them to lose weight (while many weren’t even overweight). As a result, weight loss drugs have become immensely popular outside of those requiring it for medical use. In some cases, the overwhelming demand has left those who need the injections grappling with a reduced supply. But even more concerning, weight loss drugs are now being hailed as a quick fix for weight loss that can make you shed pounds in a short span of time with minimal effort. 

Studies have shown that obesity can be environmental, genetic, or both. Yet there are people who still believe that overweight individuals have nobody to blame but themselves for being fat. Accordingly, assumptions are made about their character and behaviour, which can lead to stereotypes of people with overweight or obesity as being unhealthy, lazy, incompetent or even unhygienic. 

How do you deal with it?

It can be difficult to deal with explicit or implicit weight bias and misconceptions. Stigma can also be internalised by people living with obesity, resulting in self-blame which in turn can lead to overeating and weight gain. Therefore, we feel it’s important to give you some strategies to deal with weight stigma: 

1. Educate others about the stigma of obesity to help challenge negative attitudes. Stigmas often stem from a lack of understanding. Family members, friends, acquaintances or strangers may not know that obesity is a complex medical condition with many causes. Let them know that how their comments are affecting you.  
2. Other's comments do not define you. Remember this, and ask yourself questions like: Do I really believe what they're saying? If so, why? Does this person really know me? When bombarded with hurtful comments, it can be difficult to not believe them. This can lead to internalised weight stigma. Try to draw a line between your own thoughts and the negative messages you are subjected to. If it is affecting your mental health, seek support from a therapist or counsellor. 
3. Explore the benefits of self-compassion in a way that works for you. Podcasts, books or medication are all useful ways to foster self-love and resilience. 
4. Surround yourself with positive influences. Follow positive accounts on social media and focus on friends or family members who have your best interest at heart and who listen to you. 
5. Seek professional help. Not feeling comfortable in your own skin or having a hard time dealing with negative attitudes? There is help available. Speak to a therapist, coach or your GP. Important people in your life may also be able to help, like your friends, family or a partner.  

How can a doctor help?

A doctor can not only help with weight loss, but they can also listen to you and help you deal with negative experiences. Losing weight is hard enough as it is without people judging. Try to focus on the process and not on what is happening around you. A doctor can put things in perspective and help you to achieve your weight loss goals. If diet and lifestyle changes are not enough to reach your goals, then weight loss medication might help. Doctoronline provides an accessible environment to freely ask questions and discuss your healthcare needs. Our team of affiliated doctors will assess your situation carefully to create a treatment plan that meets your needs.  

Find a treatment plan that works for you

Are you currently struggling to lose weight? Don’t wait to get help. You are not alone. Our team of medical specialists will ensure you get the right treatment. They can help you deal with weight loss, both mentally and physically.