When’s the last time you checked your weight? While being a little overweight or underweight isn’t always cause for concern, there is a certain threshold in which you increase your likelihood of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and uneven hormones. Healthy and permanent weight loss can be achieved with a variety of methods and no one workout regimen or diet will work for everybody. Read below at the common sources of gaining weight as well as different ways you can shed excess pounds, from visiting a family practice center to assigning your own weight loss doctor.

Poor Alcohol Habits

Alcohol is thought to be the most common drug addiction in the U.S. While young adults are vulnerable to developing poor drinking habits, it’s not commonly known that people with a higher education are more likely to drink than those who aren’t. At least 10% of U.S. children live with an adult who has drinking problems, which can negatively impact them down the road. While alcohol in moderate amounts is perfectly healthy, over-drinking can lead to dependence, particularly if your family has a history of alcoholism.

Mental Health And Weight Loss

Mental illness often creates harmful life habits and can cause side effects such as chronic fatigue, lowered immune system, poor attention span, weight loss and weight gain. Anxiety disorders are the most common form of mental illness in the U.S., for example, and affect nearly 20% of the population over the age of 18. Depression is also a pervasive mental illness, with over 80% of adults who suffer from the disease not seeking professional help. If you struggle with mental health and want to lose weight, seeking out a psychologist should be at the top of your list.

Why Should You Lose Weight?

When two thirds of the U.S. are considered overweight or obese and over half of the American population suffers from a form of mental illness, you have much to gain by adopting a feasible and simple weight loss plan. A healthy weight can encourage healthier blood sugar and blood pressure levels, thus reducing your chances of debilitating and even deadly diseases such as heart disease, high cholesterol levels and type 2 diabetes. Visiting a psychologist or a family practice doctor is your first step toward formulating a daily plan, such as exercise or a new diet, to curb extra pounds. Don’t delay — carve out the healthy life you deserve today.