For years, Olivia tried everything. She counted calories, followed strict meal plans, and forced herself into early morning workouts. But no matter what she did, the weight wouldn’t come off—or if it did, it always came back. She blamed herself. If she just had more discipline, more willpower, she thought, maybe things would be different.
What Olivia didn’t know was that her body wasn’t just fighting against food—it was fighting against stress, exhaustion, and years of emotional habits she didn’t even realize she had. Like so many others, she believed that obesity was simply a matter of eating too much and moving too little. But the truth is, weight gain is far more complicated than that. As we approach World Obesity Day on March 4th, let’s dive into some of the main reasons losing weight can be difficult.
More Than Just Diet and Exercise
Over 4 in 10 adults in the U.S. live with obesity, yet many feel like their weight struggles are a personal failure. But what if the problem isn’t just about personal choices?
When someone is stressed, their body releases cortisol, a hormone that makes it easier to store fat. When they don’t get enough sleep, their metabolism slows, and their cravings for unhealthy food increase. And when they struggle with anxiety, depression, or past trauma, food can become a source of comfort—a temporary way to feel in control.
Olivia had no idea that her mental health, sleep, and stress levels were all playing a role in her weight. She wasn’t alone. So many people go through the same cycle, believing that if they just worked harder, they’d see results. But weight loss isn’t just about willpower—it’s about understanding what your body and mind need to heal.
How To Get Help With Obesity
For many people seeking help with their weight, the expectation is often the same—another lecture about diet and exercise, another plan that feels impossible to follow. But we take a different approach. Instead of just focusing on food and movement, our providers ask deeper questions:
- How is stress affecting your body?
- What emotions drive your eating habits?
- Have anxiety or depression made it harder to take care of yourself?
- Do you have any past trauma that we can help you work through?
We believe that weight isn’t just about numbers on a scale—it’s about your overall health, both physically and mentally. Our primary care providers work with patients to develop realistic, sustainable nutrition plans that fit their lives, not restrictive diets that set them up for failure. Our therapists help people understand emotional eating, stress, and past experiences that may be affecting their relationship with food. And for those struggling with mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, our psychiatrists provide the support and treatment needed to address the root causes of weight struggles.
When people start focusing on more than just what they eat—when they begin caring for their mental well-being, stress levels, and overall health—something shifts. Sleep improves, energy returns, and for the first time in a long time, many finally feel in control of their own health. At Denova, we help people take that step—not with shame or impossible expectations, but with real support that makes a difference.
You’re Not Alone—And You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
If you’ve struggled with weight for years and feel stuck, know this: it’s not just about what you eat—it’s about how your body and mind work together. And at Denova, we’re here to help with same-day and next-day appointments, so you don’t have to wait to start your journey.
Take the first step today. Schedule an appointment and let’s work together toward a healthier, happier you.
