Obesity and Depression: Is There a Link?

While older research looking at whether or not there is a link between weight and depression found mixed results, newer studies are suggesting a connection. For example, a well-designed study published in the July 2006 issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry supports a relationship.1 Given the high rates of obesity (around 32%)2 and mood and anxiety disorders (around 25%)1 these findings could be important for a lot of people.

Study Results
The study included 9,000 men and women who were interviewed about several aspects of mental health, from depression to anxiety disorders and substance abuse problems. The people surveyed also provided information about their height and weight that was used to determine their obesity status.

The study found that mood and anxiety disorders were around 25% more common in the obese participants compared to their thinner counterparts. The one exception was substance abuse, which was around 25% less common in obese people. Interestingly, the obesity-mental health links were the same in both men and women. This goes against some earlier reports that found a stronger link in women.

Which Comes First?
While the researchers found a connection, they could not determine the direction of the connection. In other words, they couldn’t tell if the excess weight led to the depression or the depression lead to excess weight. Several theories could support either direction. For example, depression could lead to weight gain because increased appetite, decreased activity3 and weight gain are common symptoms of depression.4 Also, many drugs used to treat the condition have the side effect of weight gain.

On other hand, being obese could lead to depression. There’s no doubt that there is a stigma attached to being obese and those who suffer with it can be the recipient of negative and hurtful comments.5 Also, physical movement can be limited due to excess weight, reducing the ability to participate in pleasurable activities; this may heighten the risk of depression.6 It is also possible that depression and weight may be tied by something else altogether, like being a victim of child abuse or a genetic vulnerability. Clearly, more research is needed to gain a solid understanding of this complex issue.

Karen Miller-Kovach is Chief Scientific Officer & Vice President of Programme Development for Weight Watchers International. She also chairs the Global Development Team, a group of weight management experts that represent the four international development hubs of the corporation. In addition, Karen coordinates all clinical research initiatives sponsored by Weight Watchers International and the Weight Watchers Foundation.

by: Karen Miller-Kovach 

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