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Table 3 Overview of the main theme, themes, sub-themes and categories

From: Healthy Life Centre participants’ perceptions of living with overweight or obesity and seeking help for a perceived “wrong” lifestyle - a qualitative interview study

Main theme: Searching for dignity

Theme

Sub-Theme

Category

Needing to justify avoidance of personal responsibility

Strain and challenges as barriers to change

Grief, loss and identity reactions

Strain and life challenges

Stuck in old habits and deferral

A constant struggle and negotiation between healthy living and pleasure

Knowledge of healthy living

Recognition of health risk and consequences

Lack of willpower and relapses

Expression of personal responsibility

Feelings of shame, guilt or discouragement affect weight management

Negative feelings related to body image, self-esteem and confidence

Feeling bad about not adhering to the diet or activity plan

Lack of management in daily life

A desire to change

Health challenges and the need for improved self-respect trigger change

Personal goals to improve health, fitness, weight loss and better management of everyday life

Health challenges, illness and risks

Pride in self-management

Taking the initiative to change and asking for help

Maintaining new habits and exhibiting willpower

Hope, self-efficacy and meaningfulness increase motivation

Hope and self-belief

Meaningfulness in life