RCP Medicine Podcast Episode 96: Weight, Wellness and the Mind: Rethinking Clinical Conversations
In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast, Dr Sagen Zac-Varghese, Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology, East and North Herts Teaching NHS Trust is joined by Dr Samantha Scholtz , Consultant Psychiatrist, Imperial Weight Centre, St Mary’s Hospital to explore the complex relationship between obesity and mental health. Drawing on clinical experience and recent research, they discuss the stigma surrounding obesity, its psychological impact, and how healthcare professionals can better support patients. The conversation covers the physiological drivers of weight regain, and the evolving role of bariatric surgery and GLP-1 agonists in treatment. Dr Scholtz also shares practical advice on screening for mental health disorders, managing eating behaviours, and navigating sensitive conversations in clinical settings.
Resources
RCP elearning - Obesity
Binge eating disorder:
https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/feast-resources/
Weight stigma:
https://www.worldobesity.org/what-we-do/our-policy-priorities/weight-stigma
RCP Links
RCP Social Media
Music:
Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com
Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas