Depression Due To Obesity
Depression Due To Obesity. Does Being Overweight Cause Depression? The Obesity and Depression Link. And when does childhood obesity and depression start? These questions are the subject of ongoing research, and have been for years, but what of the reverse link? Is it possible that depression plays a part in creating obesity? If so, is there a different approach to treating both disorders, that we have overlooked?
The stereotype image of the ever-laughing “fat lady”, with rosy cheeks, never really stood up to much scrutiny. Over the years, at the Elite Clinic, we have met many overweight women who tell us that they are happy with their size and shape, and some are, but many are maybe not.
Does Being Overweight Cause Depression
Does depression cause obesity, or does obesity cause depression? And anyway, does it really matter? Well actually, for someone who has been battling to lose weight for any period of time, it probably matters a lot! Could it be possible that tackling depression could go someway to solving the obesity pandemic? Have we been missing a trick in the weight loss maze….How much more successful are dieting regimes, if the person is in a positive mindset.
40% of Overweight People are Depressed.
Brief research by Martin and Marion Shirran, at the Elite Clinic, seems to indicate a connection between the positive outlook, the lighter mood of a person, and their likelihood of successful weight loss. It was recently published in the Daily Telegraph that over 40% of overweight people in the UK, (US figures are similar) are depressed, and many put their depression down to them being obese. But, maybe researchers were asking the wrong question. What if their obesity was in fact down to them being depressed? Depression due to obesity…
Depression Due To Obesity
Defining depression has always been a puzzle.
“Defining depression has always been a puzzle, even for the medical profession. It is, of course, easy to identify a person who is obese; it’s visible for all to see. But what about the depressed person? Many people are depressed, but don’t know it. Others may seem depressed to friends, but really aren’t. It seems that we all have stereotypes of what depression is, but they aren’t always accurate in reality.” So, writes clinical health psychologist, David Engstrom, PhD, in his paper on Obesity and Depression.
Does the Obesity – Depression Link Exist?
Current research leads us to assume that overweight individuals have an elevated risk of suffering from depression. However, whilst the connection between the two conditions is accepted, what is not acknowledged, is what comes first, and why the connection even exists. In fact, the whole ‘Obesity – Depression’ issue raises a number of interesting questions. Consequently, many people, striving to lose weight, ask if overcoming their depression will result in weight loss. Well, Martin and Marion are sure it will help…
Does Being Overweight Cause Depression – Link
In reverse, research with patients who have lost weight, for example following bariatric surgery, indicates that when the overweight depressed person starts to lose weight, their mood lightens. Sometimes the depression just evaporates. Several recent studies have found significant improvements in depression, following major weight loss. Take a look at our blog post all about How To Cruise and Not Gain Weight.
Life Changes Following Weight Loss
Martin and Marion have observed many clients, who have lost enormous amounts of weight, and then go on to develop a complete change in their persona. All of a sudden they want to experience different things, and their energy level is through the roof. The depression, or low mood, has evaporated.
They report observing a number of marriages/relationships that have dissolved, because one of the partners has discovered a whole new life, following their weight loss. As a result, they want different things: they want to dance, they want to party, they really want to travel. Boring Sue and John have left the room, and they’ve been replaced by mad, party animals now!
Diagnosing a Depressed or Overweight Person
So, how would you diagnose a depressed person? What are the symptoms? Increased Appetite, Reduced Activity, Low Self-Esteem, Problems with Sleep, and Excessive Alcohol Consumption, are some of the common factors. Read more about depression on the Elite Clinics website. You could almost use one method of diagnosis for both depression and obesity. And as a result, it is easy to put together all the reasons why they often go side by side.
Does Being Overweight Cause Depression?
And, if you asked Marion Shirran, Joint Clinical Director at My Weigh Less, with over fifteen thousand hours of 1:1 clinical treatment time, how would she diagnose an individual as having a problem around food and nutrition, and being on the road to obesity, if she could not actually see them? She says: “I would expect them to tell me that they were suffering with low self-esteem, experiencing a higher than normal level of dependence on alcohol, and fast, processed food. Also, I would expect them to be experiencing a reduction in quality sleep, resulting in a reduced level of activity, and a general feeling of lethargy.”
Does Being Overweight Cause Depression?
Yet another contributing factor is that a large percentage of overweight people tend to stay at home more. They shun socialising, because of their weight/size. In recent times, many have also said they feared a worse outcome, as an obese person, should they be admitted to hospital, diagnosed with Coronavirus. And, of course, the pandemic has further increased the prevalence of obesity. We have a dedicated post asking “Does Working From Home Cause Weight Gain?” You can also check out our blog post “How to Reverse Covid Weight Gain”
Childhood Obesity and Depression
Could it start in childhood? It is believed that obesity in children can lead to bullying, and the child not being included in a number of activities. This may manifest itself into the sometimes serious issues around body image. Being obese, regardless of age, is often a factor that contributes to feelings of frustration, sadness, and general depression. Going forward, helping the younger generation understand their feelings, and how they can improve them, may become a part of the solution to childhood obesity.
Depression Due To Obesity
How interlinked are Obesity and Depression?
For instance, obesity might make depression more likely to occur initially, but once depressive symptoms arise, they might compound obesity, by making it harder for the individual to exercise, as an example. Belief, and having an elevated level of self-esteem, are often markers for a successful weight loss outcome. However, ensuring the depressed person understands that their Belief drives Behaviour around weight loss, may be a challenge.
So how do you make the change?
So how do you overcome depression? Well, if you accept that research indicates that depression reduces with every pound of excess weight lost, then starting on a proven weight loss regime should be your first step. At the same time, you should either read a book, or watch some YouTube videos on CBT. As a method of treating depression, it is one of the most successful interventions you can take. Check out our Pause Button Therapy website for more information.
How Does Being Overweight Cause Depression?
CBT is evidence-based, and also the most researched therapy on the planet. You will very quickly learn the simple, but often life-changing lesson, that Belief always controls Behaviour. And when you understand that, you will be well on the way to recovery. Start to live in the present, accept the Life Architecture principle that it is your birthright, to live a happy and fulfilled life. Just the same as it is for everyone else. Also read. Overweight people are different.
Obesity and Depression – Conclusion
The relationship between obesity and depression is complex and multifaceted. While it’s clear that there is a connection between the two, the exact nature of this relationship remains a subject of ongoing research and debate. Some studies suggest that obesity can lead to depression, while others propose that depression may contribute to obesity. Regardless of the direction of causality, it’s evident that these conditions often coexist and have a significant impact on one another.
Recent research from the Elite Clinic highlights the importance of a positive mindset in successful weight loss, with over 40% of overweight individuals in the UK reporting depression as a result of their weight. This emphasises the need for a holistic approach to address both obesity and depression simultaneously, as improving mental health can have a positive effect on weight management. Ultimately, the interplay between obesity and depression underscores the importance of personalised, multidimensional interventions that consider the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals alongside their physical health.
Lose Weight, Lose the Depression.
Obesity and Depression FAQs
ANSWER: You may want to speak with your doctor, but prescription drugs are often not the preferred approach. Speak to friends and family, and share your feelings. Take a little gentle exercise, even if it’s only going for a walk. Try to increase your level of quality sleep. Read a book, or watch videos about CBT. Seek out a weight loss approach that works for you. Be committed and excited about your future.
ANSWER: There is little doubt that the two issues are connected. Weight loss is not a measure of reduced depression, but you will find it much easier to lose weight after your depression has eased. Be aware of the possible effect of weight gain from prescription anti-depressant medication.
ANSWER: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapy that helps individuals understand and change their beliefs and behaviours. It can be particularly effective in addressing depression by promoting positive thought patterns and behaviour changes. CBT can complement weight loss efforts by improving mental health and overall well-being.
ANSWER: The relationship between obesity and depression is complex and not fully understood. While some research suggests that obesity can lead to depression due to societal factors and self-esteem issues, it’s also possible that depression can contribute to obesity through changes in behavior and lifestyle choices.
ANSWER: Depression can lead to obesity in some cases, as individuals with depression may engage in unhealthy eating habits, reduced physical activity, and overconsumption of comfort foods. This can result in weight gain over time.
ANSWER: Research suggests that addressing both conditions simultaneously is essential. Starting a proven weight-loss programme while incorporating cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques can be an effective approach. CBT helps individuals change their beliefs and behaviours, which can have a positive impact on both weight management and mental health.
ANSWER: Symptoms of depression in overweight individuals may include increased appetite, reduced activity, low self-esteem, sleep problems, and excessive alcohol consumption. These symptoms may overlap with signs of obesity, making diagnosis challenging.
ANSWER: Childhood obesity can lead to bullying and social exclusion, which may contribute to feelings of frustration, sadness, and depression. Addressing childhood obesity and promoting positive self-esteem can be essential in preventing these issues.
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Are you tired of trying countless diets that never seem to work? Frustrated with the constant cycle of losing and regaining weight? What if a medically endorsed solution was rooted in thousands of hours of clinical experience? One that didn’t involve restrictive diets, excessive exercise, or invasive surgeries? Sarah Hart, below, featured on UK television, lost an incredible 140 pounds.
A Psychological Approach to Sustainable Weight Loss
Consider a new psychological approach to weight loss, where you effortlessly learn to eat when you’re genuinely hungry rather than relying on emotions like tiredness, sadness, loneliness, stress or depression to dictate your eating habits. You can complete the whole My Weigh Less Master Class from the comfort of your own home. The course includes a PDF forensic questionnaire, 12 audio MP3 sessions, 9 different hypnosis sessions and much more. For more information, you can read our Course Details page.
Imagining a Healthier You
Picture yourself as a healthier, slimmer version of yourself, free from dieting fears and able to enjoy social events with boundless energy and boosted self-esteem. Meet the experts behind the success: Martin and Marion Shirran are clinical therapists with nearly two decades of experience in the weight-loss field. They are the creators of the globally acclaimed Gastric Mind Band Permanent Weight-Loss Treatment. Sharon below lost 60 pounds on the programme.
Celebrated in the Media and Beyond
Their ground-breaking work has been featured in prominent newspapers such as the Daily Mail, The Times, The Telegraph, and the Express. Leading magazines like Vogue, Marie Claire, Good Housekeeping, and Reader’s Digest have also recognised their contributions. The Shirrans and several of their clients have also made television appearances on both sides of the Atlantic.
A Diverse Clientele Achieving Success
Over a thousand individuals, including medical professionals, celebrities, and the general public, have travelled from around the world to experience their weight-loss treatment. Some sought to enhance their appearance, while others prioritised their health, successfully reversing medical conditions like insulin resistance, diabetes, high blood pressure, and fatty liver disease.
A Continuously Evolving Approach
The My Weigh Less programme has undergone over fifteen years of research and development. Clients of various ages, from fourteen to eighty-six, have achieved remarkable results. Check out the many verified weight-loss success stories and before-and-after photos on this website.
Accessible and Effective
So are you ready to embark on your weight-loss journey? Martin and Marion Shirran, in the photo above, along with Oxford Therapeutics Ltd, have made their unique approach more accessible than ever. You can download their ‘My Weigh Less Master Class’ to your phone, tablet, or desktop computer today. You can complete the entire twelve-session course from the comfort of your own home.
Be the next My Weigh Less success story.
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Ready to Transform Your Life?
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– No Diet or Exercise Required –
– Medically Endorsed –
– 15,000 1:1 Clinical Hours Experience –
– Fully Downloadable –
– Featured in Global Media –
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Marion Shirran, as a director of Oxford Therapeutics Limited, is proud to be a registered Stakeholder in NICE – National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
You can download the complete course, and start your weight-loss journey today.
Depression Due To Obesity
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