Helping people with obesity overcome stigma and discrimination

This study is testing whether specially designed workshops can help people living with obesity feel more confident and resilient in the face of weight-related stigma and discrimination. The research recognizes that people with obesity often face negative stereotypes and judgment from society, which can harm their mental health, self-esteem, and even lead to unhealthy behaviors. The study will compare a new program that specifically addresses these stigma issues against the standard support program.

While doctors have good treatments for obesity itself — like counseling and exercise programs — there's very little research on helping people cope with the emotional harm caused by weight stigma and discrimination. This study exists to fill that gap by testing whether addressing stigma directly can improve both mental health and quality of life.