Having support around you can make behaviour change much easier. Other people can encourage you when things feel difficult, help you stay on track and celebrate your progress with you.

Support looks different for everyone. Some people already have supportive friends or family around them, while others may prefer support from a health professional, walking group, online community or work colleague.

Intentionally building the right support system will go a long way towards your long-term success. Here are some ways to build a support system that will work.

Build your team

Start by thinking about what kind of support would actually help you and who is best to provide that support.

The people who support you with your health goals may not always be the same people you usually rely on. Sometimes the habits or routines we’re trying to change are closely connected to the people around us.

For example, if you’re trying to drink less alcohol, it might help to spend more time with people who are supportive of that goal. If you want to cook more meals at home, it may help to involve the people you live with in planning meals or shopping.

Think about who you know that could:

• Hold you accountable (a walking partner, a gym buddy)
• Encourage you (a friend you trust who will really listen)
• Advise you (a health professional like a GP, dietitian, exercise physiologist or psychologist)

Be specific about what you need from each team member

Sometimes people genuinely want to help, but they don’t know exactly what would be useful.

Your supporters need specific instructions. Have a close think about what you really need to keep you on track and achieve your goals.

For example, if your goal is to walk for 30 minutes a day, find someone who will walk with you, or who you can text when you’re done.

If your goal is to eat a Fatty Liver Diet recipe for dinner 5 times a week, speak to the person you live with about cooking some meals together or supporting the changes you’re trying to make.

Create a routine

Occasional support is great, but regular support is what you need. Like other aspects of the Fatty Liver Diet, building a routine will help.

Think about making check-ins with your supporters a regular thing. For example:

• A weekly text or phone call to discuss your progress
• A routine walking group
• Weekend meal prep with someone
• A regular coffee after a gym or yoga class you like

It’s a good idea to plan for a check-in at times you know you might be struggling, such as if you’re craving food in the evening, or if you’re facing a stressful week.

Ask for help

A lot of us struggle to ask for help or talk openly about health changes, especially if we feel guilt, shame or anxiety about our lifestyle. But support is something everyone needs from time to time. You’ll be surprised at how willing people are to help.

Asking for help is a skill you learn, like any other. The key is to be clear about what you want, and to plan what you will say.

For example:

• “I’d really like to get into a walking routine. Would you like to join me once a week?”
• “I’m trying to cook more meals at home. Would you like to help me do some meal prep on the weekend?”
• “I’ve been finding things difficult lately. Do you have time for a chat?”

Seek professional support

You don’t have to do everything on your own. There are many health professionals and services that can support people living with fatty liver disease.

Depending on your needs, support might come from:

• A GP
• A liver nurse
• A dietitian
• An exercise physiologist
• A psychologist or counsellor
• Alcohol and drug services
• Diabetes or weight management services

Your GP is often a good place to start.

You can also find more support services and information here.

Join a support group

Support doesn’t always have to come from family or close friends. Many people find it helpful to connect with others who have similar goals or experiences.

This could include:

• A walking group
• A local sports club
• An exercise class
• Volunteering
• An online community or support group

Being part of a community can help you feel more motivated, connected and supported over time.

Go digital

Online groups and social media can also be a helpful source of support and encouragement, and some people prefer that they can participate anonymously if they choose.

Connecting with others online can help you share ideas, stay motivated and feel less alone while making changes to your health habits.

If you join an online group or community, try to participate regularly. Even small interactions can help build a sense of connection and support over time.

back to plan for success Next in the Series: Common Challenges