“Everyone needs some sort of support system on which to rely.” ― Richelle E. Goodrich
Mayne Island is a great community that offers a lot of support and many social clubs to its residents. Just check the pages of the MayneLiner and see for yourself. There are groups that include: school and early childhood groups, the Food Bank and MIALS, the church community, and various others like the Lions, Boaters, Chamber of Commerce, Japanese Garden, sports clubs, regular coffee groups at the Bakery, and many more. Sorry if it sounds like I’m wandering off-topic or joking! But it's wonderful to have a network of friends and connections to rely on. They can truly make a difference in supporting us. TOPS is another one of these support groups. We’re here to deal with anyone who has weight-related issues.
At TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), our philosophy is built around mutual support. Whether we want to shed some weight, enhance the quality of our meals, improve our understanding of the food we consume, explore new apps, or simply maintain good health, together with fellow TOPS members, we get the encouragement and guidance we need.
Support groups like self-help, 12-step programs, and therapy groups can all help us achieve our goals with the help of others. TOPS is a self-help support group for weight-related goals. We don’t have a professional therapist. We’re all peers, taking turns leading discussions and supporting each other. Once we reach our goal, members can become KOPS (Keep Off Pounds Sensibly). We can remain in the group as long as we like. It’s up to us.
Join TOPS if you’re looking for a fun group of people who help you deal with weight issues. It's like a social club that offers activities like challenges and games, with prizes! Because we’re part of a larger organization, we get a bi-monthly magazine filled with recipes, exercises, meal plans, personal stories, suggestions, activities, and news. There are also big celebrations once or twice a year in Victoria, where we can meet other TOPS members and have fun together.
Psychology Today says that a good support group assures that the group concludes on a positive note of empowerment, outlining concrete steps to move towards better health. I’m happy that our group always ends on a positive note, all of us leaving with a clear goal for the week ahead.
While support groups can be helpful, they should not replace regular medical care. TOPS membership can be a great option if you want to adjust your weight and improve your health. Our meetings are informative, encouraging, and friendly. We are an international self-help program that is open to everyone and is budget friendly. And the first visit is free. Go to www.tops.org for more information or contact Debra Cleland at 250-514-8863.
Submitted by Amber Harvey
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