The disease of obesity is associated with a significant psychosocial burden and many individuals who have obesity also struggle with issues related to their mood, self-esteem, quality of life, and body image (Sarwer and Polonsky 2016). According to the World Health Organization (2022) the issue of obesity has grown to epidemic proportions, with over 4 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese. Many endure psychological distress through anxiety, loneliness and depression related to obesity and the associated health and lifestyle challenges.
Some undergo weight loss (bariatric) surgery whilst others attempt to manage through multiple diets and exercise. Many do not have the support, insight or means to address the problem.
Affirming this, Marchesini et al. (2016) state that whilst there are those who achieve short term results, the main challenge of obesity treatment is not weight loss, but long-term weight loss maintenance.
Given that obesity and the related noncommunicable diseases and psychological burden, is largely preventable, it is evident and logical that creating supportive environments incorporating multidisciplinary teams and therapeutic psychoeducational programmes is fundamental in shaping people’s choices. According to McLeod and McLeod (2011) Weight loss reaches its peak within six months of the start of treatment, and in the absence of a weight maintenance program, the trend begins to reverse. The data indicates that traditional lifestyle modification programs require a greater focus on long-term maintenance to be considered successful in real terms.
