The inability to tackle emotions or anxiety can lead to overeating but an innovative programme to be launched in Malta promises a solution through food, exercise and psychological therapies.

The sessions are not about a quick-fix or miracle solution

Dorothy Scicluna, a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist who has been working in the field of eating disorders and obesity for 12 years, believes helping people rethink their approach is the first step in weight control.

She has teamed up with physiotherapist Jeremy Ellul and dietician Mario Caruana to create an eight-week programme – Rethink Your Approach to Eating, Weight and Shape – to provide those struggling with weight issues the tools to move forward in a realistic way.

“It starts with loving who you are and examining the best you can achieve. There are people who are always on a diet and constantly have to face people pointing a finger whenever they fail,” Dr Scicluna said.

“The fear of not succeeding can hold people back. Overweight people tend to hate and blame themselves for their situation and this programme is intended to help them achieve their goals in a way that works for them,” she added.

The programme, which is open for about 10 people at a time, will help participants distinguish between hunger and emotional eating, incorporate gentle exercise while learning that food can actually be enjoyed, debunk food and exercise myths, and develop a long-term plan to maintain these changes over time.

The sessions are not about a quick-fix or miracle solution – “bite-size changes” over a period of time are easier to cope with than drastic modifications in lifestyle.

“Big, sudden changes tend to result in yo-yoing. We hear of people starting an impossible exercise programme or a new dietary approach which is extreme. This can be unhealthy as well as unsustainable,” Mr Ellul said.

The sessions, through Mr Caruana, will also direct clients to ditch short-lived strategies and focus on disease prevention through diet.

Dr Scicluna added that this group was about learning the best possible ways to enhance well-being, including weight loss where necessary.

An open day on this programme is being held at Klinika San Ġużepp, Naxxar, on Friday from 4 p.m. onwards, where Dr Scicluna, Dr Caruana and Mr Ellul will field questions. For information call 2141 6789 or e-mail info@klinikasanguzepp.com.