Our 4-Step Guide to Sharing Your Obesity Story

"I don't know where or how to start sharing my story."

Sound familiar? You're not alone. It's not abnormal to feel unsure of where to begin, especially with a condition that can impact your life day-to-day. Much like a personalized weight management plan, getting started tends to be the hardest part—especially if you've never opened up about your journey with obesity before.

Moving past the fear of stigma and judgment

It can be scary to think about opening up about your story with obesity, especially given the weight stigma and deep misunderstandings that surround this condition. You might worry about how others will respond or that your perspective isn't "unique" enough.

I can assure you that your story is invaluable. Every story submitted to Obesity.net helps shed light on the realities of living with obesity. You never know who will read your words and finally feel seen, validated, or less alone. Many members find that once they start putting pen to paper, the process of writing about obesity becomes incredibly cathartic. Think less about how it will be received and more about the relief of finally speaking your truth.

Step 1: Introduce the person behind the diagnosis

To reach a meaningful length, start by letting us see who you are outside of your health. Your audience wants to know the person, not just the patient.

• Describe your world: Where do you call home, and what does a typical "great day" look like for you?
• Share your passions: What are your interests, hobbies, or roles (like being a parent, an artist, or a professional) that define you?
• The "weight" of identity: How do you balance being yourself while navigating a world that often only sees your size?

Step 2: Reflect on the mental and physical journey

Obesity is more than a physical hurdle; it is a complex experience that impacts your mental load. This is a great place to dive into the nuances of managing obesity day-to-day.

• The language we use: How do you feel about the word "obesity"? Does it feel like a clinical term, a label, or something else entirely?
• Medical experiences: What have your interactions with doctors been like? Have you felt heard, or have you faced the "BMI-first" wall in healthcare?
• The "noise": If you’ve experienced "food noise" or the mental exhaustion of constant dieting, what did that feel like? How did it affect your long-term health goals?

Step 3: Discuss where you are in this moment

You've reflected on your past, but where has that brought you today? This section helps ground your story in the present.

• Mental and physical check-in: How are you really doing right now? It's okay if the answer isn't "perfect."
• Shifting expectations: Have your obesity treatment goals changed over time? Are you focusing more on how you feel than the number on the scale?
• Finding community: What brought you here? What do you hope to gain by sharing your obesity story with others who truly understand?

Step 4: Make it authentically yours

There isn't a singular format you need to follow. Some of the most impactful stories are raw, while others use humor to navigate the hard parts. Whether you write a traditional essay, a poem, or a series of reflections, let your personality shine through.

Sharing your story is the first step toward reclaiming your narrative. We look forward to reading your words and walking this path with you!

Share your story!