A report on obesity published by the British Psychological Society today, 3 June, has highlighted the added value psychological and therapeutic approaches can provide when integrated effectively in obesity treatments.

Chartered Member Dr Julie Waumsley, Chair of the working group, explained: "This comprehensive report offers new insights to help individuals struggling with weight problems and plug gaps not filled by current obesity interventions."

The report, published by the Society's Professional Practice Board, 'Obesity in the UK: A psychological perspective' is the result of cross-discipline working group including clinical, educational, health, counselling and sport and exercise psychologists.

The report covers:

Obesity in children

Weight loss surgery

Physical Activity and Exercise Psychology - healthy weight management for adults

Exercise for obese individuals

Applied psychology and obesity management

Pharmacological interventions

Psychological interventions for people with BMI>35

Dr Waumsley continued: "It is clear from this report that obesity is a complex issue. If the 'cure' was as simple as logic suggests (eat healthily and take regular exercise) there would not be an obesity epidemic blighting the lives of so many and draining NHS resources. Nutritional and sociological factors have received much government and media attention but the psychological approach, often neglected, could make the difference in helping individuals tackle this problem."

Sources: British Psychological Society (BPS), AlphaGalileo Foundation.