Feeling depressed may not only take a toll on mental health but could also lead to a short-term increase in body weight, according to a recent study conducted by the University of Cambridge. This exploration into the complex relationship between depression and body weight offers valuable insights, particularly for those with overweight or obesity.
Researchers from the Cambridge Medical Research Council (MRC) Epidemiology Unit delved into data from over 2,000 adults in Cambridgeshire, UK, as part of the Fenland COVID–19 Study. Over the course of nine months, participants provided monthly digital responses on mental well-being and body weight using an app developed by Huma Therapeutics Limited.
Digital questionnaires measured symptoms of depression, anxiety, and perceived stress, assigning scores to indicate severity. Statistical modelling was then applied to investigate the correlation between changes in mental well-being and subsequent changes in body weight one month later.
KEY FINDINGS
The study uncovered a noteworthy association between increased symptoms of depression and a subsequent rise in body weight, particularly among individuals with overweight or obesity. For each incremental increase in the depressive symptoms score, there was a corresponding weight gain of 45g. While seemingly modest, this effect could lead to more substantial long-term weight changes, especially for those already grappling with overweight or obesity.
The research indicated that the observed effect was exclusive to individuals classified as overweight (BMI 25-29.9kg/m2) or obese (BMI over 30kg/m2). Those with overweight experienced an average weight gain of 52g per incremental point increase in their depressive symptoms score, while individuals with obesity saw a comparable weight gain of 71g. No such effect was observed among those with a healthy weight.
IMPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Dr. Julia Mueller, the study’s first author, highlighted the vulnerability of individuals with overweight or obesity to weight gain in response to heightened depressive symptoms. Even minor weight changes over short periods, as revealed by the study, could lead to more significant implications for long-term health. The findings emphasize the importance of monitoring and addressing depressive symptoms in this population to prevent further weight gain and improve overall well-being.
Senior author Dr. Kirsten Rennie emphasized the role of technology, such as mobile apps, in collecting frequent and extended well-being data from individuals. This technological approach opens avenues for a better understanding of how changes in mental health influence behaviour, particularly among those with overweight or obesity. It also provides opportunities for timely interventions when needed.
STRESS AND ANXIETY: EXCLUDED FACTORS
Contrary to expectations, the study found no evidence linking perceived stress or anxiety to changes in body weight. This nuanced exploration distinguishes between different facets of mental health and their varying impacts on weight dynamics.
While previous studies have suggested a bidirectional relationship between poor mental health and obesity, the Cambridge research offers a unique perspective. Unlike past findings, the study did not find evidence that weight predicted subsequent symptoms of depression. This nuanced understanding of the interplay between mental well-being and weight provides a foundation for targeted interventions, especially for those with overweight or obesity.
HOW TO MANAGE YOUR WEIGHT IN SUCH SITUATIONS
Know Your Baseline:
Establish baseline data on your physical health, including weight, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels. Monitor these numbers over time to track any impacts of depression or its treatment on your physical health.
Evaluate Your Medications:
Assess whether your medications contribute to weight gain or loss.Discuss with your healthcare provider to explore alternative medications that align better with your weight management goals.
Create a Clear Plan:
Collaborate with your healthcare provider or mental health professional to develop a clear plan.Define how you’ll achieve your goals, whether it involves consuming more calorically dense foods or making dietary substitutions.
Ensure the Plan is Doable:
Consider your depression-related challenges, such as motivation or self-confidence. Simplify logistics by stocking up on quick, nutritious options and making changes gradual and manageable.
‘Perfect’ Is the Enemy of ‘Good’:
Resist the urge to compare your efforts to unrealistic ideals. Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements rather than dismissing them as insufficient.
Adjust Your Plan If Needed:
If the initial plan proves difficult to follow, adjust it instead of blaming yourself.
Negative self-talk won’t help; be open to creating a different, more realistic plan.
Harness Your Energy Wisely:
Develop and implement healthy habits during periods of well-being. Establish routines that may be sustained during depressive episodes. Research suggests that healthy habits can help prevent future depressive episodes.
