The term weight loss psychology refers to the study of the psychological factors that influence an individual’s ability to lose weight and keep it off long-term. This includes understanding why people overeat, how our emotions affect our eating habits, and what kind of thinking patterns lead to successful weight loss.
Why do we overeat?
One of the most common questions asked in weight loss psychology is “why do we overeat?” After all, if we know the answer to this question, we can be better equipped to deal with our own overeating habits.
There are many different reasons why people overeat. For some, it may be due to emotional issues such as boredom, childhood trauma, emotional distress, or stress. Others may overeat because they’re constantly bombarded with food cues, whether it’s seeing commercials for fast food or being surrounded by tempting snacks at work. And then there are those who simply have trouble controlling their portions or making healthy choices due to how they were raised to think about food (e.g. ‘Eat everything on your plate. There are starving people in the world!’)
Whatever the reason for overeating, it’s important to remember that it’s not something that you have to do for the rest of your life. In fact, for some people, overeating may be a coping mechanism that helps them deal with difficult emotions or situations, and recognizing this allows them to tackle the root cause head-on. That said, if overeating is causing you psychological or physical distress, it may be time to seek professional help.
How does weight loss psychology work?
Weight loss psychology focuses on helping people overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of their weight loss goals. This may involve developing new ways of coping with emotions, learning how to control portion sizes, or developing a positive body image.
In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to help with weight loss. For example, people who have difficulty controlling their eating habits may be prescribed appetite suppressants. However, it’s important to note that weight loss medications should only be used as a short-term solution; they are not intended for long-term use.
It’s worth talking to a physician who specializes in weight loss like Dr. Elyssa Blissenbach, who offers appointments online, and is both board certified with the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Obesity Medicine.
Conclusion:
Weight loss is a complex issue involving both the brain and the body, and is a relatively new field that is still being explored. However, there is already a lot of helpful information available for those who want to lose weight and keep it off long-term. If you’re struggling with your weight, consider talking to a medical doctor or mental health professional about how you can overcome the obstacles standing in your way.