CPHSSWCE0069 - Understanding and Treating Obesity: A Primer for Mental Health Professionals

Course Description

This course is designed to provide mental health professionals with an overview of the etiology and treatment of obesity, one of our country’s most pressing public health issues. Over 40% of Americans currently have obesity and another 30% are overweight, putting them at risk to developing obesity in the future. The disease of obesity is associated with over 200 other medical conditions, as well as increased risk of mortality. The scope of the problem demands that all health professionals have a working knowledge of the scope of the problem and potential solutions. This course will begin with a lecture of the etiology of obesity. It will then move to an overview of the psychosocial burden of obesity as would be done by a mental health professional. The course will end with a discussion of treatment options for persons with obesity. The presentation will be augmented with case examples. 

Target Level Audience:  Beginner/ Intermediate

Course Outline

Learner Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:  

• Describe the scope of the obesity problem; and 
• Recognize the psychosocial burden experienced by adults, adolescents, and children with obesity. 

When participants return to the workplace, they will be able to:  

• Recognize the elements of the built environment that contribute to obesity and make sustained weight loss so difficult;  
• Identify dietary, behavioral, and activity-based targets for change in the individual or family; and 
• Make appropriate referrals to evidence-based weight loss programs.