Rapid urbanization, a modern lifestyle, and current diet choices have led people to develop habits of constant stress, leading to more serious problems such as depression.

According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), depression has become a serious medical illness that negatively affects approximately 25% of adults in the United States, and it not only affects how they feel, and how they think, but also how they act.

This is why people with depression can experience weight gain associated with overeating, poor food choices, and a more sedentary lifestyle. Over time, weight gain can lead to obesity.

This is important, because obesity is one of the fastest-growing and most serious health problems today.

Should I be worried?

If your BMI (body mass index) is too high (>25), you may be increasing your risk for many serious medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney failure, many types of cancer, and even depression and other psychiatric disorders.

Risks associated

Depression and obesity are highly prevalent pathologies, and they are linked to major public health problems. These pathologies have a great impact on the mortality of patients, and they affect the health and well-being of those who suffer from them. They can also have a socio-economic effect, as a result of the functional deterioration and expenditure of health resources caused.

That said, it is clear that this is a vicious cycle, and that obesity and depression are related. Obesity is known to increase the risk of depression, and vice versa, and the best way to treat both conditions is to address the physical and emotional needs associated with each condition.

How should they be treated?

Addressing these issues requires an adoption of new habits that promote a healthy lifestyle, without overlooking the main attitudes and emotional issues that led to obesity in the first place.

A team approach that involves a number of qualified healthcare professionals should be approached when treating these conditions. A nutritionist will help you develop a safe weight loss plan, while a psychologist can help you with emotional issues such as stress, depression, or the experiences that caused your weight gain.

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Remember that healthy lifestyle habits help prevent these ailments.

Eat healthy, exercise, do not forget to consult your doctor if you think you may suffer from any of these diseases, and above all, do your part to overcome them with the treatment that your doctor recommends. Live in health, and you will live better.

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