How Obesity Adversely Impacts a Man's Career and Work Status

Health issues among men are a top concern in public health initiatives for the coming year. For many men, the issues of concern are primarily associated with abnormal weight gain and the ability to overcome obesity. If you are a man who is concerned about your weight gain, it is important to understand how your weight not only impacts your ability to function at home but also may have an adverse impact on your career and professional life.

Weight gain in men, like women, can be attributed to physical stress as well as emotional stress. For men, when the weight is not properly maintained, there can be an adverse impact on the emotional health which then translates over into work performance. If you are living in a "less than ideal" weight, then be sure that you are addressing these issues for not only your physical health but also mental health.

While employers are not permitted to discriminate against employees who are obese, the fact remains that many employers do. While prospective employers may deny a well-qualified man the opportunity to work for them - due to weight issues - there are many men in existing jobs that lose their positions for the same reason. The employer, unfortunately, may offer up other reasons for terminating an employee when in actuality the termination is associated with sickness, missed time from work, and general motivation and employee health associated with obesity.

If you are struggling to lose weight, there are many options you can consider, including treatment for health and wellness through your company's sponsored programs. But, in addition, work to find a gym or fitness expert who can give you specific guidance, as a man, as to what exercise and nutrition menus you should follow. Like women, a man's body is not the same as another man's body and, as a result, the weight loss program may be customized to your specific needs.

Employment and job hunting are typically not issues that we associate with a poor outcome in response to weight. For men, however, the presence of obesity may be a disadvantage in searching for employment in this distressed economy, and many also impact your ability to keep your current job. Even if you do not feel your employer has an issue with your weight gain, always work to maintain a more healthy weight to ensure your longevity and your career are not adversely impacted.

Sources: Making Weight, by Arnold Andersen