Living with obesity in adolescence is associated with high levels of depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It is also associated with more weight loss attempts, more weight fluctuation, and feelings of helplessness. Compared to adult-onset obesity in later life, it is also associated with higher BMI and great risk of type 2 diabetes; action is needed early.
The bi-directional relationship between obesity and depression becomes apparent from the age of 7 and gets stronger as children pass through puberty. Recent global date show high levels of poorer mental health and self esteem are particular associated with increasing age, female gender and higher BMI classification.
Many adolescents living with obesity (ALWO )believe their weight management is entirely their own responsibility, and use social media and YouTube as their primary sources of information on weight management and obesity. These sources often offer unattainable goals and illusory quick fixes, which only contribute to negative impacts on self-esteem through feelings of failure as adolescents are unable to manage their weight successfully.
HCPs often assume the primary weight management motivators for ALWO is appearance and improved popularity. This view is superficial and problematic. The primary motivators for teens are to be in better shape, unhappiness with current weight and wanting to be more confident / improve self esteem. Recognizing this and the broader mental health challenges for ALWO, is essential in initiating appropriate care and support for ALWO.