PAGE 2

Condoning Bad Behavior


Lifestyle changes like exercising and losing weight have enormous health benefits; for certain conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, they can work as well as medication. Unfortunately, doctors don't learn motivational speaking in med school. Many are ill-prepared to help their patients alter their behavior.

Remedy
Help your doctor help you by scheduling a follow-up call to discuss progress or problems. Knowing you'll be checking in later can motivate action now. You can also look beyond your physician. See the trainer at the local Y. Or hire a wellness coach, a new breed of health counselor.

More Health Advice
From the November 2011 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine

NEXT STORY

Next Story