Depression and obesity tend to co-exist in individuals. One causes the other, that is depression can lead to weight gain and people who are overweight/obese are more likely to feel depressed.
Why do people with obesity have depression?
More people with obesity have depression than the rest of the population. However, people who are depressed are more likely to gain weight.
There are several reasons why these two conditions occur together. Based on research some of the reasons for depression and obesity to co-exist are shown below:
- Similar genetics
- Alterations in hormone regulation
- Immune-inflammatory activation
- Altered energy metabolism
- Changes in brain circuits
- Altered mood responses are noticed in both conditions
It is also known that people who have depression are known to have reduced blood flow, altered glucose metabolism and generalised activity in the area of the brain, which controls our mood.
What happens if obesity is not treated in people with depression?
We all know that people with high Body Mass Index (BMI) have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart attack, stroke, sleep apnoea, cancer, gallstones and many other medical conditions.
If untreated depression and weight gain may lead to worsening of:
- Sleep disorders
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Reduced mobility
- Coronary artery disease…in addition to other psychological issues.
People with these two conditions are more likely to avoid social interaction due to low self-esteem and poor confidence. So their physical activity and exercise tolerance is reduced.
Antidepressants are also known to promote weight gain. Some of the antidepressants which are known to promote weight gain or associated with gain include Amitriptyline, Mirtazepine (Zispin, Remeron), Olanzepine (Zyprexa), Clozapine (clozaril), Paroxetine (seroxat, Paxil), Sertraline (Lustral), fluoxetine(Prozac, Oxactin) and Citalopram( Cipramil).
People with depression struggle to lose weight due to several other factors, which interfere with their metabolism. Most people with depression have tried several diets and regained weight.
How can you help people with obesity and depression?
In this programme for “weight loss plan for people with depression” you will be assessed by a psychiatrist and will also be supported by a specialist weight management team including consultant endocrinologist, dietitians and cognitive behaviour therapist.
Based on your suitability we will also consider weaning of your antidepressants if our innovative rTMS (repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) helps you. rTMS for the treatment of depression has been approved by NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence).
We will support you with weight related medical conditions whilst helping you lose weight.
If you wish to see a specialist to discuss the “Weight loss plan for people with Depression” programme, please email us on [email protected] and we will be in touch with you shortly.
Watch our video on Weight Loss for Depression