Can cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) help with weight loss?

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and replacing them with more positive and constructive ones. 

This therapy aims to help people overcome a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, phobias, substance use disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, relationships, self-esteem, and personality disorders. CBT is not intended to be ongoing, and typically involves regular sessions with a therapist for anywhere from 4 to more than 20 sessions, depending on the issue being addressed.

CBT can be particularly helpful for people who struggle with weight management, as it focuses on changing the behavioural patterns that contribute to weight gain. For example, if someone tends to overeat in response to stress, CBT can help them develop more positive coping strategies to manage their stress. CBT is also considered a preferred treatment for obesity and binge-eating disorder (BED).

To use CBT for weight loss, a therapist will help an individual set specific and attainable goals, such as reaching a target weight range or adopting a healthier lifestyle. The therapist will also encourage self-monitoring to help the individual become aware of their eating behaviours and to identify potential setback triggers, such as boredom or stress eating. 

By identifying these triggers early on, the individual can take steps to correct them and avoid undoing their progress. The therapist may also offer feedback and reinforcement to help the individual stay motivated and track their progress. While CBT can be a highly effective way to change habits and patterns of thinking, it’s important to remember that lifestyle and behavioural training can take time, and progress may not happen overnight.