Can obesity lead to mental health issues?
Obesity and mental health issues are two intertwined topics that have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. The rise in both of these issues has been linked to the modern lifestyle and the pressures of the digital age. While obesity is often viewed as a physical issue, it can have both physical and mental health implications. Yes, obesity can lead to mental health issues. People who are obese are more likely to experience mental health issues compared to those with healthy body weights.
One study on obese adults discovered that the risk of developing depression was 55% higher in their lifetime compared to people with a healthy weight.
The most common physical consequences of obesity are an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. But obesity can also lead to mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, body image issues, and social isolation etc. A person who is obese may be more likely to experience a negative body image, which can lead to feelings of shame and isolation. This can have a negative effect on their well-being and lead to further mental health issues.
Can mental health issues lead to obesity?
The link between obesity and mental health issues is a two-way street. People with mental health issues are more likely to be obese, due to the stress of their condition and the unhealthy coping strategies, which can lead to overeating and lack of exercise.
Chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder may lead people to use food as a form to cope. They might choose poor dietary choices that ultimately result in weight gain.
The serotonin deficiency that is connected to mood changes, irregular sleeping patterns, and anxiety can cause carbohydrate cravings and excess body weight gain if untreated. Therefore, individuals with low levels of serotonin may compensate for their deficiencies with food.
In order to address both of these issues, it is essential to take a holistic approach. This means addressing both physical and mental health needs. Individuals should be encouraged to take part in physical activities and make healthy dietary choices. Additionally, mental health services should be widely available to those struggling with mental health issues.
It is also important to tackle the underlying causes of obesity and mental health issues. Obesity can be treated in many ways and bariatric surgeries are one of the most effective ways to get rid of extra weight.
New hope for obese and mentally ill patients
It is a well-known fact that mental health disorders due to obesity are treatable conditions.
The good news is if you are an older adult who is overweight and struggling with mental health problems, you can consult Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the Best Bariatric Surgeon in Hyderabad. There are safe, proven and effective treatment options that can be helpful for people who are when are not able to lose weight through conventional approaches. These approaches may help you to achieve your weight loss goals and overcome certain mental health problems as well.
It is our right to be healthy and happy, no matter what age we are. Obesity and mental health issues are two important issues that need to be addressed together in order to ensure everyone’s well-being. By taking a holistic approach and addressing the underlying causes of these issues, we can make progress towards a healthier future.
To know more detailed information you can call us at +91 9177777715 and book an appointment.
