The Impact of Obesity on Mental Health: MD Exam’s Approach

The CDC finds that 43% of US adults diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with obesity. Another medical study reveals that people diagnosed with obesity have a 55% higher risk of developing depression at some point in their lives.

“We understand that obesity increases your risk for anxiety and depression, and vice versa,” remarks Sergio Padron, founder and CEO of MD Exam. “That’s why our team of health providers treats these related conditions with a multi-pronged approach. In addition to addressing weight loss with medication, we include proactive measures to address the mental health issues that complicate your weight loss journey.”

How obesity impacts mental health

Several research studies support a correlation between obesity and depression. As a healthcare professional in this space, Padron is well aware of the fine line separating obesity and mental health. “Often, obesity is like a persistent form of depression that affects you every single day,” he says. “We consider it the leading mental health issue in America, and it cannot be resolved overnight.”

One explanation for the link between obesity and mental health disorders is that anxiety and stress stem — at least in part — from the stress of weight discrimination and societal stigma. The mental pressure of an environment that constantly judges people who are overweight as lazy, undesirable, and irresponsible can easily erode self-esteem and diminish mental well-being.  

Obesity can also cause physical health problems, such as joint discomfort, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Each of these health conditions diminishes quality of life and are known risk factors for depression.

How mental health issues like anxiety and stress lead to weight gain

Obesity directly contributes to several mental health issues, but the opposite can also be true. When decreased mental well-being causes weight gain, and increased weight gain leads to greater stress, a vicious cycle ensues. 

“Mental health conditions impact weight gain through emotional eating, hormonal changes, physical inactivity, disrupted sleep, reduced self-care, and unhealthy coping mechanisms,” Padron says. “Addressing these issues with the help of mental health professionals is essential before you can hope to manage their impact on your weight loss.”

Clinical studies now reveal that stress itself is a major factor in obesity and weight gain. Research indicates chronic high levels of cortisol — the hormone associated with stress — contribute to increased belly fat. 

Short bursts of the fight or flight mode are well-suited for dealing with momentary threats, but putting the sympathetic nervous system on high alert for extended periods is called chronic stress. Studies reveal that this prolonged activation can cause insulin insensitivity, a condition where a person’s body does not respond in a normal way to insulin, the hormone regulating blood sugar levels.  

Chronic stress is also linked to metabolic issues. The body’s metabolism controls how a person’s body uses and stores energy, and over time, chronic stress changes that function. Those changes may lead to a condition known as metabolic syndrome, with symptoms including increased levels of belly fat, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.

Furthermore, several common antidepressants also contribute to weight gain. Other medications prescribed for depression and anxiety contribute to insulin insensitivity, increasing a person’s risk for conditions like diabetes.

How MD Exam treats patients struggling with obesity and mental health issues

MD Exam is a groundbreaking online platform that combines today’s most effective weight-loss medications, impactful counseling, and cutting-edge telemedicine services. It offers a nationwide, comprehensive approach to patients dealing with both obesity and mental health conditions. 

“Our treatment options for weight loss include Tirzepatide as well as the semaglutide drug Wegovy which, unlike Ozempic, is FDA-approved to help treat weight loss,” remarks Padron. “We integrate both Tirzepatide and Wegovy into a guided weight loss program with advice from healthcare professionals. We also equip patients with an interactive portal to help them monitor progress and stay on track throughout their weight loss journey.”

While Ozempic has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing obesity and certain mental health issues, it is essential for individuals to stay informed about any potential legal developments, including lawsuits against Ozempic, to make well-informed decisions about their treatment options and to ensure comprehensive awareness of both medical and legal aspects.

When they begin working with MD Exam, patients fill out a quick intake form to set the date for their first teleconference session. During that initial consultation, they discuss their medical history, set weight loss goals, and choose the medication that will be most effective.

Patients’ prescription medications will arrive in under two weeks, but patients typically begin their weight-loss journey immediately. From day one, they can access MD Exam’s full suite of online resources and advice from knowledgeable healthcare professionals. The innovative combination of evidence-based drugs, telemedicine, and lifestyle counseling is the ideal approach to treating both obesity and its related mental health conditions.

“At MD Exam, we observe significant positive results as we treat both obesity and related mental health conditions,” concludes Padron. “Our patients not only meet their weight goals, but also report heightened levels of happiness, increased energy levels, and a greater sense of social acceptance.”