Operation Transformation clinical psychologist Dr Eddie Murphy. Image: David Cantwell
Going to work on the Operation Transformation set is only a stone's throw this year for expert Dr Eddie Murphy.
Clinical Psychologist Dr Murphy lives and works in Portarlington, a short drive from the weigh-in base at the Malt House in Stradbally, Laois.
It is the first time in his 13 years on the show's panel that it is based in Laois.
"I am so excited that Operation Transformation is based in Laois and in Stradbally. I am so proud, myself and Dr Sumi, to be two Laois doctors on the show.
"Even better that we have a local leader. Andrea Daly is incredible. Hopefully she will inspire the county and the whole country," he said.
Following criticism in previous years of the show's emphasis on weightloss, a new format this year focuses on overall health and well-being, with even the scales logo ditched.
The leaders instead have a weekly health check in where 14 health indicators, will be monitored. These include Upper Body Strength, Balance, Lower Body Strength and Cardiovascular adding to the usual Hydration, Blood Pressure, Metabolic Age, Weight, General Health, Nutrition, Movement, among others.
Dr Murphy said the mental health side is essential to health.
"it has evolved now and the focus is on multi-disciplinary support of individuals who want to make a change in their life. We know from the viewers that over 70% of them engage in positive health behaviours out of following the leaders.
"For me its always been around mental health. There is no health without mental health. Over the 13 years on the show, it's been a hugely positive conversation, promoting the whole area of mental wellbeing.
"It's about feeling positive emotions, and not just the absence of negative ones including depression or anxiety or other clinical based issues. That is really powerful," he said.
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