HELPING OTHERS TO MAKE LIFESTYLE CHANGES

HOW TO GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED

How to be a support person

This page is for your support person(s).  It may also help you if you are a support person for someone making changes

There is no such thing as 'cheating' on this weight management program.  Refrain from asking if a particular food is on his/her diet plan.  Instead, ask how various foods are incorporated into a lifestyle program.

The person you are supporting may not want the changes that they are making announced to others.  Refrain from mentioning any changes unless you know it is appropriate.

Sit down and ask the person you are supporting how the both of you can work together to accomplish their goals.  Inquire of weekly or daily goals and what you role may be.  You may want to consider making the same changes - this is a very positive program and not a diet.  It will benefit everyone involved.

Watch out that you don't put the person you are supporting in tempting situations.  As time goes on, tough situations will arise, but they may be difficult to deal with initially.  As the person you are supporting gains more confidence and develops the skills necessary to handles these situations, they can be added back.

Criticizing the person you are supporting only aggravates the guilt process they may be experiencing.  They know what they should be doing and don't need to be reminded.

Remember - there are no good or bad foods.

Here Are Some Things that the Person Needing Support Can Do

Ask directly for what behavior you want from your support person.  Explain by what they are doing is not helping you.  If this person is eating potato chips in front of you bother you, ask him/her to eat in the kitchen, away from your view.  Ask that he/she join you in learning how to eat healthier.

Make compromises if necessary.

Say 'thank you' for your support person's efforts.

Be assertive.