Perform regular physical activity in moderation, following your health care provider s recommendations. Keep a daily record of your exercise and find a friend to exercise with you. Keep your appointments with the dietitian or therapist. Learn to use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing to help you deal with stress. Discuss your feelings, challenges, and successes at a support group or with your health care provider.
Many obese people have trouble keeping weight off.
Often this is caused by emotional problems that occur when they are trying to lose weight. Weight loss can trigger severe depression, if you were obese as a child or if you have been depressed because of your obesity. If you feel compelled to eat excessively or raid the refrigerator late at night, you may be suffering emotional distress. If you are already under stress, your health care provider may decide that you should not try to lose weight until your life becomes more stable. Be aware that after you lose weight, the ways you relate to other people may change because of your improved self-image.