The Results of Weight-related Bullying

We are all likely aware of the unfavorable impact that excess weight can have on our kids' physical health, however what about the effect of obesity on their mental and psychological health?

Not as much is known about this subject due to the fact that there isn't a consistent and clear relationship between weight and mental health. Not all thin children more than happy and not all overweight or obese children are sad.

What we do understand is that kids who are overweight or overweight typically face weight-related stereotypes, social exemption and discrimination. Handling these difficulties can contribute to depression, stress and anxiety, low self-confidence and bad body image. In addition, we know that kids who are overweight experience a lower health-related quality of life. Studies reveal that kids and teenagers who are overweight report a lifestyle that is comparable to kids who are identified with cancer and are receiving chemotherapy.

Despite an increase in public awareness and zero-tolerance policies in many schools, weight-related bullying-- especially cyber bullying-- is a common experience for lots of overweight kids, and can have a devastating impact on their emotional wellness. Obese kids, particularly those with low self-esteem and poor body image, are at a greater danger of being victims of bullying. A vicious circle can then be set into motion:

Weight-related bullying can lead to an increase in negative feelings including anxiety and signs of anxiety like irritation, unfortunate state of mind, low energy and fatigue, trouble sleeping, and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. This can result in emotional consuming, which can then result in additional weight gain, which might cause increased bullying, which then starts the cycle all over once again.

Females tend to be more susceptible to the unfavorable impact of weight-related bullying due to the value of body image often put on their self-esteem and self-regard.

What is most concerning is the relationship between bullying and suicide, specifically in overweight youth. Obese kids who are victims of weight-related teasing or bullying are 2-3 times most likely to report ideas of suicide or to participate in self-harming behavior, such as cutting. This is a worrying fact.

Unfortunately, there isn't a quick fix and dropping weight doesn't constantly make the problems vanish. Nevertheless, increasing awareness of not only the physical impact, but the mental impact of obesity on teens and kids, is an excellent location to start.

At the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, we have a multidisciplinary group that believes in treating the physical and psychological effects of obesity. Speak to your kid's pediatrician about a referral or get in touch with the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition to receive more details or demand a consultation.

For teens who still struggle to manage their weight through diet and way of life modifications alone, bariatric surgical treatment has shown to be an effective choice for slimming down and lessening-- or frequently reversing-- numerous obesity-related conditions. Click here to learn more about weight-loss surgical treatment, or find out if you might be a prospect for bariatric surgical treatment by answering 7 easy concerns