If you have decided to have weight loss surgery, then you know how difficult it was to make the decision. You have probably had all kind of thoughts going through your mind and getting your friends and family on board was probably one of them.
You will face emotional and physical challenges before, during, and after your weight loss procedure and getting support from your loved ones during your weight loss journey can be beneficial. According to research, having friends or family members who are supportive of your healthy eating and exercise goals is important for long-term weight-loss success.
If you need assistance gaining the support of friends and family, here are a few tips that may help.
Educate Them
Let them know that this is challenging for you and you would like their support. Have your family get together so you can explain the details about your weight loss procedure. Tell them why you need the surgery, what is expected, possible complications, and why it is important to you. Your friends and family are concerned about you, letting them know these details around your decision and the procedure is a great way to gain their support and understanding.
Get Them Involved
Trying to get your family and friends involved as early as possible is a good start. Tell them exactly how they can support you. Here are some suggestions:
- Ask them to simply listen as you go through this life changing experience.
- Visit the doctor with you.
- Be there with you during appointments and surgery.
- Help with running errands and chores during your recovery.
- Help hold you accountable by ensuring you eat healthy, exercise, and follow the post-op protocol.
- Ask them not to keep junk food in the house to help minimize the temptation to return to your old eating habits.
Remember achieving success with weight loss surgery requires a lot of hard work and support. You have done the research and made the decision to be committed to changing your lifestyle to be healthier. Letting people in on your journey will help them understand that you do actually need support and that this change is about you, not about them, so you can live a healthier, happier, longer life.