Dear Bald Man
I am friends with a couple that is seriously overweight. Not quite ‘My 600-Pound Life” big, but big enough for some serious health problems. This is bad, but is of course their own business.
The problem I have is that they have kids and their bad eating habits are obviously rubbing off on them. The kids are young, but have pretty apparent self-control issues, are heavier than their classmates, and don’t seem to be slowing down in the growth department.
I know the grandparents and have spoken with them about this. They agree and have tried but failed to get through to the parents. I am considering having an intervention of sorts with the parents before it is too late. What are your thoughts on me interjecting?
— Obese Intervention
Dear Obesity-
You are in a tough spot. These parents are on the verge of ruining these kids lives and subjecting them to a lifetime of ridicule and health issues.
On the other hand, the parents are pretty unlikely to actually listen to what you have to say. Listening would first mean a lifestyle change for the parents. You giving them your opinion seems like it might help, but they will probably just think you are being a dick and shrug off your advice.
The only way I see this working on any level is teaming up with the Grandparents, and possibly any other mutual friends/family that are sympathetic to your cause. Approach it like a real intervention. Food addiction is real, and tough to battle. You need to offer support, and come at this from an angle of love. Even still, be prepared to make them angry and to potentially lose a friendship.
-Bald Man
Bald Advice 