Obesity Is Not Just About Willpower

Obesity, and to a lesser degree overweight, is often unfairly chalked up to laziness or poor choices, when in reality it’s the result of a complex mix of genetics, biology, environment, and mental health. Despite growing awareness, people living with obesity still face judgment—from doctors, employers, and even friends or family.

The Catch-22 of Medication Use

While these newer medications might help reduce stigma by treating obesity more like a medical condition than a moral failing, there’s a twist: people using them are sometimes seen as “cheating” or taking the “easy way out,” similar to how bariatric surgery patients have been judged in the past. This judgment can come from society at large—or even from healthcare providers.

When Access Isn’t Equal, Stigma Deepens

Because these medications are expensive and often not covered by insurance, not everyone who could benefit can actually get them. And that disparity adds another layer of stigma: those who can’t afford the drugs may be seen as not trying hard enough to lose weight, even when systemic barriers are the real issue.

Internal and External Pressures

Stigma doesn’t just come from the outside. People living with obesity often internalize these negative messages, leading to feelings of shame, low self-worth, and a reluctance to seek medical help. New medications might ease some of that pressure—if paired with better public understanding and support—but they can also introduce new anxieties about long-term use, potential weight regain, or judgment for using medication at all.

 

The emergence of GLP-1 medications represents a major step forward in obesity treatment, offering hope and real results for many who’ve struggled for years. But medication alone isn’t a magic bullet. Sustainable health outcomes still require a foundation of healthy habits—balanced eating, regular movement, and mental wellness. These medications can be powerful tools, but they work best when combined with lifestyle changes and a supportive environment.

To truly move the needle, society also needs to shift its mindset. Reducing weight stigma isn’t just about changing how we talk about obesity—it’s about expanding access, providing compassionate care, and recognizing that managing weight is a long-term journey, not a personal failure. Only by addressing both the medical and social sides of obesity can we ensure that those who need help get it—without shame or judgment.