Patients often fall out of a regimen (or quit it altogether) when they lose motivation. A loss of motivation can occur when patients become bored with a routine, when they don't experience results as quickly as they'd like, or when there are unexpected external circumstances. This is common among lifestyle, diet, and exercise programs.

How to Address:

• First, set the expectation that it's not uncommon to lose motivation, and that they can actually expect it to happen at some point. Provide a list of actions to take when they begin to feel unmotivated so they have the power to recognize it, and take action early.
• Understand patient interests. Encourage them to partake in programs that are exciting and that align with their interests. In the case of exercise, encourage group exercises or classes that are meant to make it a fun experience and provide them with information on where/how to engage.
• Check in via social media. Setup a Pinterest account and take 5-10 minutes of each day to pin healthy recipes, new exercises, or words of inspiration to your boards. Patients who follow you in this medium can check in daily for fresh ideas to change up "boring" routines. Encourage patients to be active members as well, where they can build their own "motivation" boards.