When You Need a Helping Hand

Family and Friends as a Support System

Friends, family members, coworkers, your bariatric surgeon in Macon – all of them can be instrumental parts of your weight loss support system

Even on the peaks of the highest mountains and the floors of the deepest oceans, few of us are ever alone. Though many of us pride ourselves on our individuality and self-reliance, we humans are inherently social creatures—regardless of our confidence, competence or resolve, we all occasionally need a helping hand.

If you’ve made the decision to pursue weight loss surgery, your bariatric surgeon is one such helping hand, but he is not the only one. Many people will be there to help you along the road to weight loss success. If you let them, your closest friends and relatives can become the most versatile and reliable allies to your weight loss program.

As you read this, you may have your eyes steadily focused on the prize, motivated and ready for any challenge that lies ahead. Though this is commendable, some setback during your weight loss journey will inevitably cause your resolve to waver. This is not your fault, but with the right support system in place, it won’t have to become a problem.

Each time you fall, the members of your support system can pick you up. When things seem hopeless, they can give you the extra boost of motivation that keeps you on target. They’ll be there to encourage and assist you, providing a patient ear to vent to or a steady hand to hold you up.

When you’re ready to start building a support system that will help you overcome any problem in your weight loss journey, start by…

Inviting everyone to join your team.

If you’re like most people, then there are a lot of people in your life who regularly influence your habits. Whether they’re friends, relatives, roommates, coworkers or barely-known acquaintances, those who impact the way you eat or exercise can be crucial parts of your support system.

Because weight loss can often be a touchy subject, these people may be awaiting an invitation to help. This means you’ll need to make the first move. Politely ask these individuals for their help and make it clear what they can do to make a difference in your weight loss journey. If they engage in behaviors that hamper your progress, talk to them about the negative impact this has on you and what can be done to alter their influence. If they engage in behaviors that help you, reinforce these positive actions by telling them how much you appreciate the things they do for you.

Often, others will be surprised to learn that what they do has such a dramatic impact on you. Those who truly care about you will eagerly jump at an opportunity to help you reach your goals—they will be the most valuable assets of your support system.

Of course, the opportunities you encounter after weight loss surgery will give you the chance to make a few new friends as well. Read on to When You Need a Helping Hand…Part II to learn how new acquaintances can become valuable assets in your support system.