As the trend of turning to weight loss medications like Ozempic continues to rise, an increasing number of clients have shared the profound influence that Ozempic has exerted on their mental well-being.
Ozempic (semaglutide), is a prescription drug used to manage type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Ozempic works by stimulating the release of insulin, slowing down gastric emptying, and reducing appetite.
While Ozempic is primarily known for its positive effects on blood sugar control and weight management, we are now beginning to see its impact going beyond the physiological realm, reshaping individuals’ relationships with food and offering an opportunity for psychological growth. Just like any journey however, the path ahead can sometimes be filled with bumps and complexities.
On a positive note, the impact of Ozempic-induced weight loss can manifest in various uplifting ways, including enhanced self-esteem, a surge in confidence, elevated energy levels, and an amplified interest in hobbies and social interactions.
Recent research is shedding light on the potential advantages of Ozempic in reducing anxiety and depression. One plausible explanation revolves around the transformative effects of weight loss. As weight decreases, individuals often experience an upswing in confidence and a more positive self-perception, which can inherently uplift mood. Another intriguing angle is Ozempic’s impact on gut health, an avenue that underscores the profound connection between the gut and the brain – known as the mind-gut connection.
Ozempic’s influence also extends to key brain regions governing pleasure-centered eating and executive functions. Enhancements in these domains may culminate in an overall enhancement of mental well-being.
Ozempic may also help to reduce repetitive or intrusive thoughts about food, and a decreased preoccupation with eating. Initially, this transition manifests as fewer food-related thoughts, which can eventually evolve into a mindset where food hardly crosses the mind at all. This freeing of mental space can lead to a remarkable sense of freedom, contributing to reduced anxiety and uplifted mood due to the relief it imparts.
Conversely, I’ve noticed that some of my clients who are using Ozempic are finding it challenging to deal with their emotions when their usual way of coping, which used to involve food, isn’t an option anymore. Many clients express grappling with uncertainty as they seek alternative avenues for emotional regulation.
Another pattern that I’ve noticed with some clients is the time lag between the visible decrease in weight and the emotional adjustment that accompanies it. The process of assimilating their evolving identity demands time and doesn’t necessarily synchronize seamlessly with the pace of weight loss. This disparity between their external appearance and their internal self-perception has been cited by clients as a source of psychological tension, triggering sensations of discomfort and unease.
The incongruity between their outward appearance and the way they experience themselves generates a unique psychological discomfort that psychologists refer to as “cognitive dissonance”, which several clients have openly discussed with me.
Dealing with these challenges can feel a lot easier when you have the support of a therapist by your side. In therapy, you can start to shift your mindset and develop strategies to create a healthier relationship with food that lasts.
Another great resource is working with a Registered Dietitian who specializes in behavioural therapy for weight management. The combination of psychotherapy and behaviour therapy techniques can offer you effective support on your path to better well-being and the cultivation of healthier eating habits.
