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How do I stop avoiding family events because of my weight?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 42 years old. Have been having a tough time with my weight. Its really affecting my life. I often skip family gatherings because I feel really uncomfortable and aware of my weight.

This made me think, how can I stop skipping family events because of my weight at 42? Its really hurting my relationships with my family. I want to enjoy time with them without feeling bad about myself. Please help me find a way to deal with it.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Ashraf Ghani

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I have read your question. I understand what is bothering you.

When people have concerns about the way they look they usually stay away from things because they feel weird and worry about what other people think of them. This is something that lots of people do.

Staying away from things can actually make people feel worse after a while and make them feel sad and lonely.

Body image concerns can be really tough to deal with.

One thing that can really help with body image concerns is to start doing things like going to events but do it in a way that feels okay and safe for you.

For example if you do not want to go to a family gathering you could try going for a little while or choosing a smaller get together where you feel more comfortable, with body image concerns .

It is also an idea to remember that people are not always paying attention to how you look. Usually, people are too busy with their conversations to worry about what you look like.

Working on accepting yourself and not tying your self-worth to your weight can make a difference in how you feel.If you are still having a time with these thoughts talking to a therapist for cognitive behavioral therapy can be really helpful. This therapy can help you change the way you think and make you feel more confident.

If you want to lose weight it is better to make changes to your daily life with the help of a doctor. Losing weight with the help of a doctor can help you feel better physically and emotionally.

I hope this helps. If you have any questions, you can ask me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 13, 2026
Reviewed At July 2, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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