Healthy Weight

Healthy Recipes

Nurse Helpline

01 6685001

9am – 1pm Mon to Fri

Supports and signposts

Everyone’s weight journey is different. The right support can make all the difference.

There have been lots of positive developments in weight-related research, treatment and care over the last decade.

When to ask for help

If your weight is affecting your health or wellbeing, ask your GP for help.

Your GP can:

Remember that health is not determined by your body weight alone. You and your GP can also look at a range of things that may be affecting your health.

"I used to feel like I was fighting a losing battle, but seeking professional advice was a turning point for me."

Margaret

Treatment options

Your GP may suggest specialist treatments for obesity. Treatment options may include:

"I’ve realised that it’s okay to need help. Being referred to specialists helped me to find what works for my body."

Declan

Treatment aims  

Treatments for obesity aim to:

More information:

HSE Obesity Treatment Information

 

Treatment Aims

Treatments for obesity aim to:

 

For more information see the HSE’s Obesity Treatment Information.

Other relevant supports are outlined below. 

Advocacy and Support

Association for the Study of Obesity on the Island of Ireland (ASOI)
Provides public resources on obesity prevention and treatment and promotes patient advocacy

 

Irish Coalition for People Living with Obesity (ICPO)
A patient-led organisation offering peer support and education for those living with overweight and obesity. 

Alcohol

Ask About Alcohol
HSE-led site explaining how alcohol affects your health, with self-assessments and drink calculators. 

Counselling Services

HSE Counselling in Primary Care (CIPC)
Free counselling for medical card holders via GP referral. 

 

Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP)
Professional body linking people to accredited counsellors and psychotherapists in their area. 

 

Diabetes

Diabetes Ireland
The national charity supporting people living with diabetes and those at risk. 

 

Eating Disorders

Bodywhys
Ireland’s national eating disorders association, offering support and information. 

 

Mental Health

  • Aware
    Supports people affected by depression and bipolar disorder through education and services. 
  • Balancing Stress (HSE)
    A free 6-session programme for managing stress, low mood and anxiety. 
  • Minding Your Wellbeing (HSE)
    Free online video series promoting self-care and positive mental health. 
  • Samaritans
    24/7 emotional support service for anyone in distress.
    Freephone: 116 123 
  • Your Mental Health (HSE)
    Reliable information and support services for mental wellbeing.
    Phone: 1800 111 888 

Nutrition and Healthy Eating

Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (INDI)
Professional body for dietitians providing reliable nutrition information and factsheets. 

 

Irish Heart Foundation Recipes
Browse a range of heart-healthy, tasty and easy-to-make meals.  

 

Safefood – 101 Square Meals Cookbook
A free, downloadable cookbook with budget-friendly family recipes. 

Physical Activity

Get Ireland Walking
Encourages everyday walking for health, with local walking groups and resources. 

 

HSE Exercise Videos
Beginner-friendly exercise videos led by qualified instructors. 

 

Irish Heart Foundation – Be Active
Tips and tools to get moving and stay active. 

 

Parkrun Ireland
Free weekly 5k walk/run events open to all fitness levels. 

 

Smoking Cessation

QUIT (HSE)
Support to help you stop smoking.
Freephone: 1800 201 203 

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2025-06-20