Absolutely Out of My Mind
Phil's Mental Musings
Obesity Linked to Mental Health Problems
16/05/08 17:04 Filed in: Psych
News
Data derived from a national
health survey of over 40,000 Americans shows that obesity is a
significant risk factor for mental health problems, not just
medical ones. Compared with adults who are at or near their normal
weight, obese folks are twice as likely to suffer from depression,
anxiety disorders and several other psychological problems. Even
moderately overweight individuals have a greater risk of mental
health problems, although not to the extent of those who are
obese.
The research does not answer the question of whether obesity causes mental dysfunction or is merely associated with it. In other words, are people who are depressed or anxious, for instance, more likely to engage in behaviors that create obesity (unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, etc.), or is obesity itself a cause of these kinds of conditions? So far, we just don't know.
What the study does suggest is that obese individuals should be screened and, if indicated, treated for mental health problems, not just physical ones.
One more reason to stay in shape.
The research does not answer the question of whether obesity causes mental dysfunction or is merely associated with it. In other words, are people who are depressed or anxious, for instance, more likely to engage in behaviors that create obesity (unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, etc.), or is obesity itself a cause of these kinds of conditions? So far, we just don't know.
What the study does suggest is that obese individuals should be screened and, if indicated, treated for mental health problems, not just physical ones.
One more reason to stay in shape.