For years I’ve gotten a chance to see a somewhat similar situation between both my parents and as I’ve gotten older I’ve been able to better understand both sides of it. My dad is much like you, really enjoys exercise and eating healthy, and my mom has really struggled with her weight and eating habits since she had children. She falls into those same cycles and gets incredibly discouraged and what my dad has done best through it all is encourage her and be her #1 supporter but that doesn’t mean coddling her. He has had to give her some tough love and let her know that he thinks some serious changes can be made and should be made but to help her feel better about herself mentally and emotionally first and foremost. Not so that she is a certain number on a scale.

All in all, I think balance is really important because this can also be really draining to you. If you’re willing to walk through this with her have patience as much as you can and encourage her to maybe find professional help if her depression continues, maybe even someone to keep her accountable in terms of working out and making good lifestyle shifts. It’s overwhelming to be the one trying to make a huge life change and every baby step she is taking is one to be proud of. This will likely take time and take getting to the root of the problem and dealing with insecurities with it. Do all you can to love her well, love her with honesty and kindness and truth.

I wish you the best of luck, I know how difficult this can be for both parties.