Health professionals' reflections on existential concerns among people with obesity

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to describe health professionals' reflections on existential concerns among people with obesity when attempting to support them in their lifestyle change processes. For many of those affected by obesity, the condition becomes lifelong and causes existential concerns. The health professionals' reflections on existential concerns among people with obesity may influence central aspects of their practice and their patients' well-being. Methods: Eighteen health professionals with relevant health education working in three different treatment programmes for people with obesity were recruited for three focus group interviews. The interviews were analysed and interpreted using a model for interpretation of meaning at three levels with a phenomenological–hermeneutical approach. Findings: The analysis identified three themes. The health professionals reflected on existential concerns among people with obesity in terms of patients' repressed emotional difficulties and lack of self-respect. In addition, they reflected on their own experiences of powerlessness when presented with people with obesity's existential concerns. Conclusion: The present study provides valuable insights into reflections on existential concerns among people with obesity, based on health professionals' descriptions. We believe that these insights add to the existing literature and have consequences for how people with obesity are met and cared for.