Winning at the battle of the bulge is a challenging task for most people. The World Health Organization reports that at least 2.6 million people die annually because of obesity complications. As the levels of obesity rise around the world, health care professionals are recommending more than just diet and exercise as part of an overall plan to fight weight issues. Behavioral therapy programs are generally tailored to help you tackle the emotional issues tied with your weight.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a part of many professional weight loss programs. This type of therapy focuses on the way you feel and respond to triggers associated with your eating habits, notes MayoClinic.com. It allows you to discuss negative thinking and find positive ways to deal with thoughts and not take them out through poor eating habits. Cognitive behavioral therapy is conducted in a structured environment, and one-on-one therapy is generally part of this type of weight loss program. The counselor will also teach you coping techniques and help you manage physical symptoms of food cravings and withdrawal, as well as discuss past issues that could affect your weight gain such as trauma, anger and relationship conflicts.
Residential Programs
Some weight loss programs are housed in a residential setting where you stay for an allotted period of time. This may also be referred to as an inpatient weight loss facility. This type of program offers intense therapy that focuses on every facet of weight loss and changes your everyday environment to a more structured one, according to the Structure House. Starting with nutrition, meals are prepared based on your health needs. This allows you to lose weight under medical supervision without the temptation of making poor food choices. Regular and intense workout sessions may also be a part of the program. You will undergo behavioral therapy and your peers and counselors will reward you for making good choices. Some programs may offer a spa session or makeover once you meet your weight loss goals.
Group Session Therapy
A weight loss support group will focus on your behavior toward food, explains the American Psychological Association. In this type of round-table discussion, you will be able to discuss your struggles with making poor food choices and leading an unhealthy lifestyle. Finding support from others can help you develop friendships and a positive location to share thoughts and feelings. A nutritionist may also be on staff to discuss ways to make healthy choices and low-fat alternatives to some of the high calorie foods you crave.
Eating Disorders
Many behavioral therapists are specialized in specific eating disorders. These programs focus on self-image issues, overeating, binge eating and obesity. Anorexia and bulimia issues are on the more severe spectrum of behavioral therapy. Many people who suffer from anorexia and bulimia often have fluctuations in their weight, mentions the National Eating Disorders Association. Professionals can accurately diagnose if you have an eating disorder or not. In some cases, treatment can be done in an outpatient setting successfully. For severe cases of an eating disorder, inpatient hospitalization may be utilized to get your health stabilized before therapy can begin.
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