Weight-loss Jabs Linked to Higher Workplace Confidence

It appears there is a growing difference in confidence levels between people who use weight loss medication and those who don’t. This difference is especially noticeable in the workplace. According to new survey findings, many users feel more assured both at work and in social situations. This confidence boost appears to be linked to improvements in both physical and mental wellbeing.

The research was carried out by myBMI and involved 5,000 UK adults. It highlights how significantly our health and self-perception can shape our daily working lives. This is something we frequently observe in our work at Kays Medical. Supporting physical and psychological wellbeing is at the heart of what we do.

What the survey found

myBMI estimates that around 1.5 million people in the UK are now using weight‑loss injections. Of those, 61% reported feeling more confident at work over the past year. This was noticeably higher than the 30% seen across the general population and the 19% among non‑users.

The most notable increase in confidence was reported by millennials, more than 70% of whom said they felt better at work, followed by Gen Z at 60%. There were also some interesting regional differences: Bristol topped the list with 81% of users reporting improved workplace confidence, while Sheffield came in lowest at 36%.

Improvements to mental wellbeing, too

The report — titled More than Scales: the impact of obesity — suggests these positive effects aren’t limited to workplace confidence.

• 65% of users reported improved mental health over the last year
• 64% felt their self‑esteem had improved
• 63% felt more confident in social or family settings

These figures are more than double those reported by the wider population.

At Kays Medical, we often talk to employers about the close link between physical health, mental wellbeing and workplace performance. These findings reinforce something we see every day. When employees feel physically better and more confident in themselves, it often has a ripple effect. It improves engagement, reduces stress levels, and boosts job satisfaction.

What this might mean for employers

The report touches on wider workforce challenges, including labour shortages and the growing conversation around obesity and economic inactivity. While weight‑loss medication is not a solution for everyone, the findings suggest potential wider benefits for employers — particularly in workplaces where low confidence, stigma or mental health concerns can impact performance and career progression.

According to myBMI’s clinical team, the mental health improvements seen among injection users may be due to a mix of physical changes. These include better hormone balance and reduced inflammation. Psychological shifts, such as feeling more in control or experiencing less stress, also play a role. But they also emphasise that these effects build gradually over time rather than appearing overnight.

A Kays Medical perspective

As many of our clients know, occupational health isn’t just about preventing illness — it’s about creating the conditions where people can thrive. This can be achieved through health surveillance, wellbeing programmes, mental health support, or training for managers. Confidence and wellbeing at work play a major role in productivity and retention.

While weight‑loss medication is only appropriate for certain individuals under clinical guidance, this research does highlight an important point for all employers: supporting holistic wellbeing can make a real difference to how employees feel and perform.

If you’d like advice on strengthening your organisation’s approach to health, confidence and wellbeing at work, our Kays Medical Occupational Health team is always here to help.