We all have varying levels of health, and we all have varying motivation to maintain or improve our health. A recent study has shown that a health scare is one of the most effective means of motivating an individual to improve their health.

The study showed that after experiencing a health scare, smokers are three times more likely to quit. Unfortunately the same was not true for weight loss. Individuals who were overweight or obese and suffered a similar health scare, did not go on to have substantial weight loss.

The researchers determined that this was due to a lack of support. There are strong links between weight loss and emotional support at home and work.

From a practical point of view this has two interesting outcomes. Firstly, it highlights that if effective programs are implemented after any health scare, then the opportunity to make improvements is much greater. Secondly, it shows that in many cases people need such a scare to act as motivation to make change.

It also highlights that weight loss is a very difficult challenge, it can be long-term, require a lot of support, and be very demanding goal to achieve. It also shows that any effective weight management program needs ongoing support and assistance to maximise effectiveness.