Speaking to your doctor about weight can be daunting as it means sharing personal details about your life, eating habits and body. Obesity is not a lifestyle issue or personal choice.

The oversimplified view that all we must do is ‘Eat less, Move more’ does not address the complex underlying causes of obesity. Obesity is a complex disease influenced by a number of factors, including the environment, access to healthy and affordable food, physical activity, cultural and societal norms, education, genetics and lifestyle choices.

Before the consultation

• Remember obesity is a disease and it is treatable
• Book a visit specifically to discuss weight
• At your appointment tell your doctor you would like to discuss weight. You could start by saying, “I'm here because I am concerned about my weight and how it could be affecting my health”
• Be prepared – have a list of questions and concerns
• Consider bringing someone as support if it helps you feel comfortable
• Be able to tell your doctor about your history of weight change. Is it recent, long-term or has it fluctuated?
• Take time to think about triggers or factors that influence your weight so you can discuss this
• Think about the times you have tried to lose weight in the past
• Bring a list of any medications you are taking
• Think about why you want to lose weight
• Have realistic expectations of the consultation

What is a successful consultation for you?

• You have an open discussion with your doctor about weight
• You get information from your doctor
• You share information about your experiences, concerns and expectations in relation to weight
• Your doctor assesses any complications of obesity you may have
• You receive reassurance about your health
• You learn about treatments – safety, effectiveness
• You learn about medications that may help
• You may be referred to a specialist clinic
• You develop a personal weight management strategy

During the consultation

• Ask about your doctor's comfort discussing weight
• Explore positive or negative experiences you may have had in the past discussing weight
• Avoid self-critical, negative and stigmatizing language – your weight is not your fault
• Discuss words you are comfortable and uncomfortable with using when discussing weight
• Tell the doctor if you are comfortable having your weight checked
• Be prepared for a possible blood pressure check, physical examination and blood tests
• Ask about referral to other services and treatments
• Make a plan for follow up