Is There Any Link Between Obesity And Mental Health

1. Is There Any Link Between Obesity And Mental Health?

2. What Mental Health Effects Can Obesity Have? Obesity, mood and anxiety disorders are related, according to NCBI. In other words, if you are obese, you might be more likely to experience a mental health condition like depression or anxiety. You might wonder whether obesity leads to mental health problems or the opposite. Researchers have varying perspectives on the connection between obesity and mental health. According to Harvard Health Publishing, emotional distress can make some people eat more than they should. Stress management techniques that involve food can lead to obesity and uncontrollable weight gain. Others may experience psychological distress due to obesity. Being overweight can cause one to feel bad about themselves. Those who are overweight may undergo stigma or judgement from others. These incidents may cause low self-esteem. People who are obese may find it challenging to engage in constructive activities, making it more difficult to manage negative emotions. Furthermore, obesity is associated with a more significant number of physical health issues and pain, which can elevate stress.

3. Which Mental Health Issues Are Associated With Obesity? Anxiety Significant worry is a component of the mental health disorder known as anxiety. According to NCBI, people who are obese are more likely to suffer from anxiety disorders like social anxiety, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety. The definitions of these three disorders are as follows:

4. Depression A mood disorder called depression is characterised by sadness, a decline in one’s interests and hobbies, and unfavorable self-perceptions. Depression frequently causes an increase in appetite and weight gain, which increases the risk of obesity in depressed people. For female adolescents, the connection between obesity and depression is vital. According to the sage pub, in some cases, having depression can cause obesity and vice versa. People with depression may use food as a coping mechanism for unpleasant emotions, resulting in excessive weight gain. Depression can cause low energy and a lack of motivation to exercise, contributing to weight gain. For those who already have obesity, the strain of managing the condition and its effects on one’s life can cause unfavorable emotions that can develop into depression.

5. Bipolar disorder Another type of mood disorder that includes manic and depressive episodes is bipolar disorder. A person has either an elevated or irritable mood for at least a week during a manic episode. Additional signs include: overconfidence in one’s importance or skills, increased energy that keeps you awake, racing thoughts, impulsive actions, etc. According to PubMed, specific factors may have contributed to the connection between obesity and bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder patients, like those with other mental health conditions, may use food as a coping mechanism.

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