The link between worry… and overeating.
🥦 Overeating & Worrying About Weight in Scotland: You’re Not Alone
Let’s be honest — a lot of us struggle with overeating at times. Between busy lives, stress, and the endless temptation of snacks, it’s no wonder so many Scots find it tricky to keep their eating habits on track. In fact, recent figures show that around two-thirds of adults in Scotland are overweight or obese. But here’s the thing: that number isn’t a judgment — it’s a reminder that many people are navigating the same challenges.
Why Overeating Happens (And It’s Not Just About Willpower)
Life today makes it easy to eat more than our bodies actually need. Think about it:
Stress and worry — emotional eating is super common. A rough day or a tricky week can leave you reaching for comfort food.
Budget pressures — sometimes the cheaper option is a ready meal or takeout, rather than fresh fruit and veg.
Busy schedules — skipping breakfast or lunch often leads to overeating later in the day.
Cultural habits — hearty portions and a love of treats run deep in Scottish life, and that’s okay!
Hormonal Changes — This is the experience I had. Perimenopause turned my eating habits upside down
The key is knowing that small changes can make a big difference — you don’t have to be perfect. It’s all about making that 1% upgrade to your health and wellbeing, and doing it every single day.
Obesity Isn’t Just About the Number on the Scales
Being overweight or obese can affect energy levels, sleep, mood, and overall health. But it’s also about wellbeing — how we feel in our bodies and minds. Many people find that stress and worry about their weight can create a cycle: feeling anxious leads to comfort eating, which then leads to guilt, which makes stress worse.
Breaking that cycle is possible — and you don’t have to do it alone.
💡 Free Resources to Help You Along the Way
There’s a lot of free, reliable support out there if you want guidance or just a bit of reassurance:
🏥 NHS Inform
www.nhsinform.scot
A brilliant starting point for advice on healthy eating, understanding BMI, and even finding local weight management programmes.
🍎 Healthy Living Scotland
www.healthyliving.gov.scot
Full of tips for eating well without spending a fortune, plus easy, Scottish-friendly recipes.
🧠 SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health)
www.samh.org.uk
Overeating can often be linked to stress or anxiety. SAMH has free resources and helplines to help you take care of your mental wellbeing.
🏃 Paths for All
www.pathsforall.org.uk
Gentle exercise can make a huge difference, even just going for a walk. Paths for All helps you find local walking groups and ideas to get moving.
👩⚕️ Your GP or local health board
Many NHS boards in Scotland run free weight management programmes with dietitians, group sessions, and ongoing support. They’re tailored to you and completely confidential.
🌱 Small Steps, Big Wins
You don’t need a massive life overhaul to start feeling better. Try:
Eating mindfully — slow down, enjoy your food, and notice when you’re full.
Planning meals — even a rough plan can stop late-night snack binges.
Drinking water — sometimes thirst masquerades as hunger.
Finding emotional outlets — a walk, journaling, or a chat with a friend can help more than food sometimes.
Celebrating small wins — every positive step counts.
❤️ You’re Not Alone
Remember, struggling with overeating doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re human, living in a world full of temptation and stress. With the right support, free resources, and a few small tweaks, it is possible to take control without pressure or guilt.
Start small. Take one step today. And know that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
My small but might step is keeping away from Greggs
✅ Your Friendly Mini Action Plan
No pressure — just a few small things you can try this week to feel a bit more in control and kind to your body:
Pause Before You Eat
Take a breath and notice if you’re truly hungry, or if you’re eating out of stress, boredom, or habit.
Drink First, Snack Later
Grab a glass of water when cravings hit — sometimes your body just needs hydration.
Move in a Way You Enjoy
Even a 10-minute walk around your neighbourhood counts. Paths for All has plenty of ideas: pathsforall.org.uk
Plan One Meal Ahead
A simple plan for lunch or dinner can stop last-minute choices that lead to overeating.
Celebrate Tiny Wins
Did you drink enough water today? Go for a short walk? Eat a fruit or veg you normally skip? That’s progress!
Reach Out if You Need Help
Free support is out there — NHS Inform (nhsinform.scot), Healthy Living Scotland (healthyliving.gov.scot), or SAMH (samh.org.uk) are great starting points.
Be Kind to Yourself
Remember: change takes time. Every small step matters more than perfection.