MyObesityTeam conducted a survey in late 2019 with 159 individuals in the United States who were diagnosed by a doctor as being obese or overweight. MyObesityTeam asked respondents about:

• The physical, social, and emotional impact that weight has on their lives.
• The health implications of being obese or overweight.
• Ways they have tried to lose weight.

MyObesityTeam shares the research results of our member surveys so our community can learn, collectively, from each others’ experiences.

As the American Psychological Association notes, obesity and depression often go hand in hand, and they can trigger and influence each other. Bias against people who are overweight contributes to these negative feelings.

MyObesityTeam members share some of the difficult emotions that they often encounter as a result of their weight. When asked what they experienced most often in the past six months, frustration and embarrassment topped the list. In addition, members reported that poor self-esteem, guilt, and a number of other emotions affect them and their behavior.

Read more about results from the MyObesityTeam survey:

• Symptoms Beyond What You See in the Mirror
• Common Health Conditions For Those Who Are Overweight or Obese
• No One Way to Lose Weight
• Obesity and Victories Beyond the Scale

How much impact does weight have on your emotions or behavior? What do you recommend to others who might be struggling with negative feelings? Share your thoughts in the comments below.