Impact of Social Stigma on Mental Health among Women with Obesity: An Expert’s View

"Weight-related stigma is a very well-known problem. It is directed at women and leads to experiences of discrimination and body shaming that can adversely affect their mental health.”

That is what Shagun Bindlish, MD, board member of the American Diabetes Association, said in a recent interview with Patient Care Online when asked how societal stigma surrounding obesity can contribute to mental health challenges faced by women with obesity. How can clinicians combat this and effectively address the mental health needs of their female patients with obesity? In the video below, Bindlish answers that question and discusses the need for a safe space for open discussions about weight-related issues. Also, Bindlish emphasizes the importance of using a multidisciplinary approach tailored to individual patient needs.

Shagun Bindlish, MD, is medical director at One Medical, in Dublin, California.