( sity is defined in the study as having ...)Obesity, a Reflector of Mental Health – Study Find,Health

sity is defined in the study as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more.

While previous studies have shown a connection between obesity and depression, this is the largest and most representative study of the two problems in U.S. population. Also, this study included a much more careful assessment of mental health problems than earlier research, according to Dr. Simon.

Unlike many previous studies that show a link between obesity and depression among women only, this study revealed a strong link in both genders. There were significant differences among social and cultural groups. In groups where obesity is more common--that is, among non-white and less educated groups--there is less depression among the people who are obese. But in groups where there is less obesity, it is accompanied by more depression.

This may indicate that stigma accounts for some of the relationship between obesity and depression, said Dr. Simon. ‘Perhaps in groups where obesity is less socially normative, it's less acceptable and that's why there's a greater association with depression,’ he suggested. ‘But in groups where it is less stigmatized, obesity doesn't seem to be as depressing.’

Research currently underway Group Health may lead to a better understanding of the link between body weight and mental health, and how these problems might be moderated.

Dr. Simon and his team are now conducting studies to address questions such as: Do depressed people have more difficulty increasing physically activity? Are their diets different than the diets of non-depressed people? Are depressed people less likely to be successful with structured weight-loss programs? Can weight-loss programs designed specifically for depressed people make a difference?

Simon's article was co-authored by Michael Von Korff, ScD, Kathleen Saunders, JD, and Diana Miglioretti, PhD, of Group Health Center for Health Studies; Paul K. Crane, MD, and Gerald van Belle
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