Episode 96: Weight, Wellness and the Mind: Rethinking Clinical Conversations

In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr Sagen Zac-Varghese, Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology, East and North Herts Teaching NHS Trust is joined by Dr Samantha Scholtz , Consultant Psychiatrist, Imperial Weight Centre, St Mary’s Hospital to explore the complex relationship between obesity and mental health. Drawing on clinical experience and recent research, they discuss the stigma surrounding obesity, its psychological impact, and how healthcare professionals can better support patients. The conversation covers the physiological drivers of weight regain,  and the evolving role of bariatric surgery and GLP-1 agonists in treatment. Dr Scholtz  also shares practical advice on screening for mental health disorders, managing eating behaviours, and navigating sensitive conversations in clinical settings.

Resources

RCP elearning - Obesity

Binge eating disorder: 

https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/

https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/mental-illnesses-and-mental-health-problems/binge-eating-disorder

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/feast-resources/

Weight stigma:

https://www.worldobesity.org/what-we-do/our-policy-priorities/weight-stigma

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Music:

Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com

Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas