Exploring the complex relationship between obesity and mental health : a narrative review

Abstract

Obesity is a major public health problem worldwide. Its association with multiple physical morbidities is well known. Although there is a massive impact of obesity on mental health, these areas are not adequately highlighted. Following a comprehensive literature search, this narrative review describes the complex relationship of obesity and mental health, reflecting on its clinical relevance. Obesity is a psychologically stressful factor in itself; it is also associated with stigma, discrimination, abuse, social ridicule, isolation, and various other challenges. Obesity affects body image perception, self‑esteem, and mood, along with social and occupational activities. Obesity is associated with many psychiatric illnesses, e.g., depression, anxiety, stress‑related disorders, psychoses, bulimia nervosa, binge eating, cognitive impairment, and dementia, in various ways, as a risk factor or clinical feature. Weight gain and obesity are also common side effects of different psychiatric drugs. Along with its impact on mental health, obesity impairs quality of life. It is essential to improve awareness about the relationship of obesity and mental health, and to take necessary steps to prevent, manage, and reduce the impact of obesity.