Managing obesity is an arduous journey, and a diabetes diagnosis can make it feel even more overwhelming. The reality of having an incurable disease that requires lifelong management is tough, and the advice you hear—lose weight, take medications, exercise—can all seem like an insurmountable challenge. Most of these are easier said than done. 

But you don’t have to face this alone. Many people understand what you’re going through and are ready to support you. Whether you need motivation, effective management strategies, or just a listening ear, having a strong community and access to comprehensive resources can build the foundation of the support system you need.

If you live in Bermuda and are seeking local support, this guide is for you.                                        

 

Get Support for Obesity and Diabetes

 

Why Community and Social Support Matters

Taking control of your blood sugar and shedding those extra pounds is a challenging journey that becomes much easier with a supportive community. Here’s why having that network can make all the difference:

1. Emotional and Psychological Support

Hearing success stories and sharing experiences with others boosts your motivation to stick to your health goals. Sharing your progress with people who cheer you on and understand the ups and downs of your condition can promote further progress. 

2. Practical Advice and Shared Knowledge

Swap recipes, meal plans, and shopping tips that fit with diabetes and weight management guidelines. It’s like having a personalized, crowd-sourced nutrition guide. Get inspired by local fitness classes, walking groups, or personal success stories. 

3. Accountability and Motivation

When others know about your goals, it can push you to stay on track. Joining challenges like step counts or weight loss goals adds a fun, competitive edge to your journey. Frequent check-ins, whether in person or online, are a great way to celebrate successes and brainstorm solutions to setbacks.

4. Social Connections and Activities

Group activities like runs, walks, or fitness classes keep you active and provide opportunities to socialize, making exercise enjoyable and something to look forward to.

5. Access to Resources and Information

Support groups and community programs frequently work with healthcare providers, educators, and local organizations to provide educational materials and other resources.

Attend workshops on diabetes management, nutrition, and physical activity to gain valuable skills. Community networks also provide information about local healthcare providers, insurance options, and financial assistance programs. Having access to such details makes navigating the healthcare system much easier.

 

Resources for Diabetes and Obesity in Bermuda

Whether you’re looking for an online group, educational tips, or fitness activities, Bermuda offers a variety of resources to help you manage diabetes and obesity. Let’s explore some of the key options available to you.

Medical Resources

1. Hospitals and Wellness Clinics

Access to qualified medical professionals is crucial for effective diabetes and obesity management. 

Bermuda has several medical facilities, including the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and Premier Health and Wellness Center. These facilities have endocrinologists, dietitians, and other healthcare providers specializing in these conditions. They offer personalized care plans, nutritional counseling, and ongoing support to help patients achieve optimum health.

Wellness clinics offer a more holistic approach to diabetes and weight management. Premier Health and Wellness Center focuses on holistic health and wellness, offering programs tailored to weight management, diabetes prevention, and overall health improvement. 

To find a medical facility near you, search for “weight loss clinic near me” or “diabetes clinics near me.”

2. Medically-Supervised Weight Loss Programs

Medically- supervised programs provide a safe and structured approach to weight loss, ensuring that participants receive the guidance and support needed for effective and sustainable results. Shedding extra pounds under professional supervision often includes: 

• Regular Monitoring: Healthcare professionals continuously monitor for safe and effective weight loss. They regularly monitor health markers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and HbA1c levels.
• Nutritional Counseling: Dietitians offer detailed guidance on creating a balanced diet plan, including advice on meal replacements, portion control, and healthy eating habits.
• Behavioral Therapy: Many programs include behavioral therapy to encourage healthier eating habits and overcome psychological barriers to weight loss.
• Medical Interventions: Doctors may prescribe medications to control appetite, boost metabolism, or manage health conditions related to obesity.

If you’re looking for weight-loss programs in Bermuda, look no further than PHWC! Our medical team will customize a weight loss plan that best suits your needs. 

3. Diabetes Reversal Programs

Diabetes reversal programs are designed to create significant lifestyle changes, emphasizing physical activity and behavior modification. These programs provide the tools and support needed to improve health and potentially reverse type 2 diabetes. 

Among the support you can expect from diabetes reversal programs are:

• Behavioral Support: Work with therapists or counselors to address emotional eating, stress management, and other psychological barriers.
• Nutritional and Fitness Guidance: Get personalized meal plans and nutritional advice to manage blood sugar levels and promote weight loss alongside exercise routines tailored to your fitness level and medical condition.
• Continuous Medical Supervision: Regular check-ups, medication management, and personalized health coaching are integral parts of these programs.

Diabetes Reversal Program in Bermuda

 

Community-Based Programs and Support Groups 

1. Bermuda Diabetes Association

The Bermuda Diabetes Association (BDA) is an organization that offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at improving the quality of life for people living with diabetes and promoting diabetes prevention and management across Bermuda. This group offers support through the following:

• Educational Workshops

The group offers workshops on blood sugar management, healthy eating, medication use, and preventing complications. 

• Support Group

Support groups share resources and provide peer support to help individuals manage their diabetes.

• Resource Center

The BDA’s resource center provides access to glucose meters, testing strips, insulin supplies, and educational materials, helping individuals manage their diabetes daily.

• Advocacy and Awareness

The group advocates for better diabetes care and raises public awareness through campaigns, policy advocacy, and events like World Diabetes Day and health fairs.

• Diabetes Programs

Participate in individual counseling, group classes, and online education to empower yourself with the skills needed to manage diabetes.

• Research and Innovation

The BDA supports research initiatives and pilot programs to advance diabetes care and find innovative solutions for managing the condition.

2. Online Support

Virtual communities and platforms offer a space for people to share experiences, connect, and receive support from others who understand their challenges. Find online support through:

• Facebook Groups: There are multiple groups dedicated to diabetes and obesity support, where members share personal stories, ask questions, and encourage one another. Use search terms like “diabetes support group” or “weight loss support” to narrow it down and see the most active groups.
• Instagram Communities: Many individuals share their journeys on Instagram, using hashtags like #diabetestips and #weightlossjourney. Following IG accounts provides daily motivation and practical tips for managing these conditions. More than any platform, IG also helps you visualize best practices, making them easier to implement.
• Forums and Blogs: Engage in active forums on websites about diabetes and obesity, where you can share weight loss journeys, recipes, and support for bariatric surgery experiences.

3. Fitness Activities

Bermuda hosts various fitness events that encourage community participation, promote healthy living, and provide an enjoyable way to stay active. Here are some of the key fitness events and activities available in Bermuda:

• Bermuda Marathon Weekend or the Chubb Bermuda Triangle Challenge: This annual event attracts participants from around the world and includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and a relay race. It’s a great way for residents and visitors to challenge themselves and enjoy Bermuda’s scenic routes.
• Charity Walks and Runs: Various non-profit organizations host charity events throughout the year, such as the Walk to DeFeet Diabetes Virtual Walk and Breast Cancer Walk, to promote physical fitness and raise awareness and funds for important causes.
• Community Fitness Classes: Local community centers and gyms offer a range of fitness classes, including Zumba, yoga, pilates, aerobics, and dance classes. 
• Outdoor Boot Camps: If you love high-energy workouts, outdoor boot camps are perfect. These sessions mix cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises and are usually held in parks and beaches. They are a fun and effective way to exercise in a group setting.
• Water Aerobics: Try water aerobics at local pools and beaches for a low-impact workout. It’s especially great for those with joint issues or seeking a different exercise.
• Guided or Self-Guided Hikes: Bermuda has several hiking trails, such as the Railway Trail and Spittal Pond Nature Reserve. These trails range in difficulty and offer stunning views of the island’s landscapes.

Government of Bermuda Resources

The Government of Bermuda actively promotes health and wellness through public health campaigns. These campaigns include media outreach, community events, and educational materials to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and obesity. Check out their Diabetes and Obesity Resource page for helpful links.

Get the Best Support for Obesity and Diabetes

At Premier Health and Wellness Center, we understand the challenges of managing obesity and diabetes. Our comprehensive weight loss and diabetes reversal programs provide all the support and resources you need to prevail over these conditions and recover your well-being.

As a leading wellness and diabetes care clinic in Bermuda, we offer healthcare services dedicated to helping you achieve better health outcomes and improve your quality of life.

Call 441-292-5111 or fill out our online form to get a consultation from one of our Bermuda doctors. You may also visit any of our clinics:

• Hamilton: 38 King Street, Hamilton HM12, Bermuda
• St. Georges: The Bank of Butterfield Building, 1 King’s Square St George’s Bermuda GE05