You can team up with a few friends to join a local gym and take classes or search online for an exercise or weight loss support group nearby. You can also search Meetup. com for weight loss or group fitness training. Another option is to search for support groups on Facebook and narrow down your results by location.

You can also try Overeaters Anonymous , which allows you to search for local meetings that can help you overcome eating and dietary challenges. These meetings may be held at local hospitals and often include medical professionals who can answer your questions.

The organization says it provides access to meetings in 75 countries. You may also want to check out a virtual option called The Obesity Action Coalition , which also maintains a list of in-person support groups by state.

Psychologists, nutritionists, or other weight loss professionals often run these clinic-based support groups. In addition, you can ask your physician or call local universities, hospitals, or clinics for a referral. Many of these support groups may also have a virtual option.

Most forums offer a safe place for members to share stories as well as diet and exercise plans, plus seek motivation. Always check with a doctor before starting a new diet plan or exercise program.

Weight loss apps are incredibly useful. They can help you track your calorie intake and exercise. Many of them also offer support in the form of social media connections and chat rooms. For example, the app MyFitnessPal has a message forum where you can connect with other users to share tips and success stories.

The app for the wearable fitness sensor Fitbit also has strong community features. Once you purchase a Fitbit watch, you can connect with other friends and family who also have a Fitbit. Another app known as FatSecret allows you to chat with others and create or join groups to connect with people who have similar goals.

While these programs often come with a cost, they are another choice that may keep you engaged and focused on an exercise and diet program. WW formerly Weight Watchers , for example, is one of the most popular weight loss programs in the world. Its success is at least partially owed to its use of social support.

You can also access group meetings or receive one-on-one support from a coach for an additional cost. Another commercial program that has shown success in long-term studies is Jenny Craig, according to a research review.

Along with a meal delivery program, Jenny Craig offers community-based support in the form of online forums and member blogs.

If your doctor suggests bariatric surgery, your entire life approach will likely change following it. Ask your bariatric surgery center for a referral to a bariatric surgery group or try searching on Facebook or Meetup.

com for a bariatric surgery group nearby. These groups are often open to people who have undergone weight loss surgery, as well as those who are considering the procedure.

Friends and family may also be welcome to attend with you. For example, American Bariatric is a forum where you can interact with people who have undergone or want to have bariatric surgery,.

Local medical institutions may be particularly equipped to offer support groups specifically for bariatric surgery. There, you will also get the support and advice of medical professionals.

If all else fails, sometimes taking your own initiative can help you get what you want. Start your own support group and find participants who can give you the support that you need.

Online forums, in-person support groups, and social media apps can all help you through your weight loss journey. Consider your local medical clinics, universities, or hospitals for physical-led support groups. In a time when many people prefer virtual meetings, many in-person meetings now offer an option to participate online.

If you have time and interest, consider starting your own support group. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. Joining a support group for COPD can help you feel less alone.

You'll be able to connect with people going through the same things you are. There are…. Online schizophrenia support groups are a great resource for anyone living with the condition.

Read more for the best ones out there. Here are the best anxiety support groups you can access from the comfort and safety of your own home. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? Our monthly support groups provide a secure, warm setting for patients undergoing the process of lifetime diet and lifestyle changes that can improve surgery outcomes and are necessary to achieve enduring weight loss.

Support sessions have been shown to directly increase the chances of short- and long-term patient success following bariatric surgery. Regardless of where a person is in relation to the bariatric surgery process, he or she is welcome to attend the sessions. The support group meets twice a month via zoom with a new topic for education.

If you should have any questions please contact the CHI Health Weight Management team at Notice of Data Security Incident. More Information. About Us About Us About Us Board of Directors Community Benefit. News Center Our History. View All Services Behavioral Care Cancer Care Digestive Health Ear, Nose and Throat.

Heart Institute Home Health Services Maternity Neurology Neurosurgery. Orthopedics Pelvic Health Center Pharmacy Primary Care. Priority Care Rehabilitation Care Virtual Quick Care Weight Management Women's Health.

Financial Assistance Gift Shops Guest Information Guide Insurance Information Health Risk Assessments.