Although they are treated separately, the reality is that physical health and mental well-being are intimately connected.
One example of how this is true is when we look at childhood depression and obesity. Research has found that obesity and depression in children can have both physical connections and mental health links.
And it’s important to note that this is more than simply sadness or when your child has an off-day at school. Depression is a serious problem.
Consider, for a moment, how obesity and depression in children are connected.
Physical Connection Between Obesity and Depression
First, let’s examine the physical links between childhood obesity and depression. One is the HPA axis. This is a hormonal pathway between the hypothalamus in the brain and both the pituitary glands and adrenal glands, which produce hormones, such as cortisol.
When you experience stress, your body releases large amounts of cortisol. That, in turn, can have an impact on how you metabolize food. If you are stressed for long periods of time, your brain tells your body to store up fat. In particular, this fat gets stored in the abdomen.
Social Factors for Childhood Depression
It’s unfortunate but true that children can be mean to each other. Teasing and bullying are not unheard of—even if today its impact is much better understood than previously.
Body-weight issues can certainly be a source of taunting for children. Bullying, especially prolonged bullying, has a major impact on a child’s self-esteem. And of course, low self-esteem is also a potential cause of depression. Add on top of that other issues such as difficulty making friends, not feeling accepted, or being isolated.
The Impact of Childhood Depression on Quality of Life
Clearly, these experiences are not helpful for any child’s development. What’s startling is how much of an impact obesity and depression can have on a child’s quality of life.
As they grow up, if the depression is not addressed, these kids can have real struggles in adulthood. They will carry the depression with them. Which, in turn, will make it more difficult for them to develop healthy relationships or have a fulfilling life.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
What Parents Can Do to Help Their Children
As a parent, you want to ensure that your child is prepared and empowered to have a healthy and successful life. There are many things that you can do to help break the obesity and depression link.
For example:
- Talk to your children and ask how they are doing
- Role model healthy eating
- Do active things together as a family (hiking, biking, playing catch, etc.)
- Encourage your children to share their feelings
- Avoid making passive comments about their weight
- Help your child manage and reduce stress
Really, when you think about it, these are not just good ideas for weight control or stress management. They are also part of the process of learning how to be both emotionally and physically healthy throughout life.
Ask for Help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. All caregivers need support from time-to-time.
One idea is to talk to a therapist who understands child development. They can help provide perspective for what’s going on. And you can use them as a sounding board. For one, a therapist will be able to give you more tips to help support your child. Also, you can express your thoughts and concerns about your child’s obesity and depression.
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Obesity and depression are common for both adults and children. However, childhood depression without treatment will negatively impact your child’s life for years to come. Be informed, use the tips mentioned above, and consider getting professional help through depression treatment.
If you would like to know more about my approach to anxiety therapy, please feel free to contact me.
