Sport Psychology Provides Integrated Treatment for Obesity

Only 23% of Americans are exercising
enough to meet the recommended levels laid out in federal physical activity guidelines. A sedentary lifestyle is one of the major causes of obesity, which according to the American Medical Association, now affects nearly 40% of the population. Simply increasing activity through sports can help, but the causes of obesity are complex and can be confounded with mental health and emotional well being. Combining activity with sport psychology can be a more useful approach. Getting in the zone mentally is just as important for an elite athlete as physical training. In the same way, exercise alone isn’t enough to combat obesity unless mental limitations are overcome.

Overcoming Mental Barriers for Sustainable Weight Loss

Although overeating plays a major role in weight gain, obesity is a complex condition with many causes. Several physical aspects of lifestyle, such as exercise and sleep, can influence weight gain. However, it is also important to address any mental or emotional issues in order to find the right attitude not only to lose weight but, in the longer term to keep it off. Sport psychology can include the option of counselling, and because obesity is linked to psychological variables, therapy is an essential element of helping overweight people to modify their lifestyle.

Increasing Intrinsic Motivation with Performance Goal Setting

As well as counselling, sport psychologists promote increased physical exercise using motivational tools such as setting goals. Many people think that sport psychology is only for elite athletes, but the mental tools used can work well to increase intrinsic motivation for everybody. When people have autonomy, feel like their are part of a team, and reach a certain level of competency then intrinsic motivation occurs. Goal setting can help them achieve competency by focusing attention and providing direction and incentives.

Integrated Therapy to Treat Obesity and Depression

Obesity and depression are often linked, and over 40% of adults with depression are also obese. Treatment for depression and obesity can be disjointed. However, a study has revealed that weight loss can be achieved more effectively when support is received through one integrated program of care. This is the sort of package that a sport psychologist can offer, as they are dually trained in enhancing sports performance and increasing mental well being.

Following an exercise regime is generally an effective way of losing weight. However, because obesity is a complex and multifactorial condition, an increase in activity is far more effective when combined with the mental support and tailored goal setting offered by sport psychology.