Link Between Depression and Weight Gain: Insights and Guidance

Connection between Depression and Weight Increase: Insights and Useful Advice

Depression can have a significant impact on an individual's physical health, with research from 2018 suggesting that it may lead to higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and increased body fat. This connection is complex and is thought to be influenced by factors such as challenges with executive functioning, including impulse control.

Several antidepressant and antipsychotic medications, including aripiprazole (Abilify), clozapine (Clozaril), haloperidol (Haldol), olanzapine (Zyprexa), quetiapine (Seroquel), risperidone (Risperdal), trifluoperazine (Stelazine), escitalopram (Lexapro), sertraline (Zoloft), and others, have been found to increase BMI by more than 7%. However, it's important to note that not all medications have the same effect, and some, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), may even cause weight loss.

Negative self-talk, body dysmorphia, and poor body image can also arise as a result of weight changes, which can in turn cause or contribute to feelings of depression. This creates a challenging cycle that can be difficult to break.

The health at every size principle may be useful when working with a doctor or dietician. This approach emphasises the importance of overall health and well-being, rather than focusing solely on weight loss. Reaching out for support from a healthcare professional who takes a weight-neutral approach may be beneficial.

Depression can make it more difficult to manage weight due to factors such as difficulty with planning, fatigue, lack of motivation, sense of hopelessness, feeling unworthy, anhedonia (loss of pleasure in things that you normally enjoy doing), and the adoption of new coping mechanisms that impact weight.

Appetite changes are a formal symptom of major depressive disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5). This can manifest in either weight loss or weight gain.

However, there are strategies that can help. Having an accountability partner, like a friend, may help manage weight and provide support. Incorporating gentle exercise, such as walking, swimming, bike riding, or yoga, may help manage weight and boost energy and mood. Expanding the repertoire of pleasurable experiences, like listening to music or working on a craft, may help reduce the consumption of comfort foods.

Working with a therapist can provide a comforting space to process feelings about body image and learn coping tools. Radical acceptance of one's body and its worthiness at any size is important. Practicing mindfulness, such as meditation, mindful eating, reflective journaling, or walking meditation, may help become aware of habits contributing to weight changes.

A 2019 study suggests that the social stigma attached to weight gain may increase feelings of anxiety and depression in young adults, specifically females. It's crucial to remember that everyone's journey is unique, and it's important to approach weight management with compassion and understanding.

In conclusion, managing weight while dealing with depression can be challenging, but with the right support, strategies, and mindset, it's possible to find a path to better health and well-being.