January 9, 2024
Overcoming the challenges of weight gain from antidepressants, Polly found solace in the convenience, personalized care, and non-judgmental support offered by Hello Alpha, ultimately becoming an advocate.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us faced unexpected challenges, especially when it came to mental health. “During the pandemic, I was put on antidepressants and I gained 100 lbs,” shared Polly Torkelson, a current Hello Alpha member. For Polly, her weight gain not only took a toll on her physical health but also on her overall well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic was an especially challenging time for follow-up care, and Polly found herself having to find a solution.
Through her own research, Polly learned about weight management medication that might be able to help her. These medications were relatively new, and finding a doctor nearby who would be willing to prescribe it proved to be a challenge. It was a Reddit suggestion that led Polly to Hello Alpha, where she found the support she needed. "I found out about Hello Alpha on Reddit where someone had suggested it. I’ve continually had a positive experience, literally nothing bad to say - they always get back to me in a timely fashion and I’ve reached my goals."
Hello Alpha's virtual platform provided Polly with the convenience she needed, allowing her to connect with her care team without the hassle of visiting a medical office. The speed with which the Alpha team responded to her inquiries left a lasting impression. Polly expresses her satisfaction, stating, "My whole experience has been positive, but if I had to pick a favorite aspect, it would be the convenience. I don’t have to go into a medical office. The Alpha team gets back to me so quickly."
Polly especially appreciated that her experience with Hello Alpha was non-judgmental and allowed her to be herself. In an era where weight loss medications often come with societal judgment, Polly found solace in the compassionate, patient-centered approach of the Alpha team. "I have never felt shamed by Alpha for weight loss. Shaming is so common even with these new weight loss medications. I have friends that have tried to get them or even been shamed while picking up their medicine from pharmacies. I have never felt shame from the team at Alpha."
While weight loss was a primary focus of Polly's care with Alpha, she also appreciated the breadth of services offered. From addressing STIs to ongoing support for her weight loss journey, Polly felt heard and understood by her dedicated care team. "I felt like I was being heard and being understood. I was not coming across roadblocks," she said. Moreover, Polly felt a trusting relationship with her provider and care team at Hello Alpha, sharing that "I repeatedly worked with the same care team, and the same people had my medical chart, so I truly felt like they knew me and my situation."
Despite having an in-person primary care provider, Polly found reassurance in having an all-encompassing virtual provider at her fingertips. This accessibility and the confidence that her messages would be promptly addressed provided Polly with a sense of security. "I have an in-person primary care provider but she’s a nurse practitioner at my OB/GYN clinic. So it’s nice to have an all-around provider that I can access and message whenever I need to, and feel confident that they’ll get back to me."
Polly's positive journey with Hello Alpha has not only transformed her physical health but has also empowered her to recommend the virtual primary care service to others. "I have already recommended Alpha to so many people and I will continue to do so." Through her story, Polly Torkelson shines a light on the transformative impact of virtual care, and showcases how Hello Alpha is an essential part of her health and wellbeing.
About Hello Alpha
Hello Alpha is a virtual primary care platform that specializes in inclusive, expert care for all by bridging the gaps in women’s health. With a personalized approach catering to an individual’s unique health goals, Hello Alpha can treat more than 100 conditions ranging from allergies to eczema and diabetes to menopause. Additionally, Alpha providers will proactively help identify and manage underdiagnosed conditions while connecting patients to labs, specialists, and other essential resources. The aim is to ensure that patients feel as healthy and vibrant as possible.
If you have questions about how Hello Alpha can help with weight loss, please check out some of the following pages:
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PLEASE NOTE: THIS BLOG DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE.
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational/educational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A patient-client relationship will only be formed after you enter into a written agreement with an Alpha provider. Always consult a professional in the area for your particular needs before undertaking any new healthcare regimen.
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