How can I broach the topic of losing weight?

The World Obesity Federation suggests some general statements that can be used or modified to open up a discussion about weight.

1. Ask permission: “Is it OK if I ask you about your weight?”
2. Start with the broader topic of health and lifestyle: “Do you have any concerns about your health in general?
3. Ask about feelings: “How do you feel about your weight?”
4. Use the third person: “Were you aware of the link between xx condition and weight?”
5. Make positive assumptions: “What things do you do to keep healthy?” or “How important is being healthy to you?”
   _{Reference: Scope Obesity Training Program}

Key phrases

Below are some other phrases you can try. We suggest exploring these to see which work best for you. Say them out loud and find words that you feel comfortable with and that fit your natural communication style.

Is weight a priority?

It can also be helpful for some people to quantify how much of a priority addressing weight is at a point in time in order to assess their readiness to change: