Obese children are more at risk than their thinner counterparts for depression and depressive illnesses.  What is not known is the manner in which the two conditions are connected; does depression in children cause obesity, or does obesity cause the depression?

Although many studies have been done in this area, the findings are often controversial and vary considerably.  So while it is unknown whether one condition is the actual cause of the other, it is clear that they are linked.  Obese children are more prone to depression, low self esteem and other mental health conditions.

Considering the social stigma of childhood obesity, it’s not hard to see why obese children miss more school, participate less in activities and are often unhappier with the overall quality of their lives than non-obese children.  It is important to treat your child’s obesity as a health issue, not a physical appearance issue.  Not all obesity is caused by overeating, and treatment can be a vicious cycle of setbacks if your child continues to feel berated or picked on.  Working with your child to develop a healthier lifestyle is key, to losing weight as well as fighting depression.

The good news is that there are measures to be taken that can not only help your child lose weight, but also help ward off depression and low self esteem.  Physical activity helps to burn fat, speed up the metabolism and tone muscle.  But it also releases chemicals in the brain that make your child feel happy (much like eating chocolate, without the expanding waistline!).

Being outdoors and getting natural sunshine also plays a role in depression prevention and treatment.  A lack of sunshine is proven to contribute to depressive illnesses, as is a lack of Vitamin D.  Eating a well balanced diet and playing in the sun could greatly improve your child’s depression. 

Now, that is not to say that “Obese children just need to get out more!”  That’s not my point at all.  While some depression or obesity can be attributed to lifestyle, environment or eating habits, many people suffer from imbalances that are best treated with antidepressants.  Since placing a child on antidepressants is controversial and often completely unnecessary, it is best to explore all of the ‘natural’ avenues of treatment first. 

Talk with your child’s pediatrician if your child is obese and you feel that they may be suffering from depression.  Some signs that may indicate your child is suffering from depression include:

• change in sleeping patterns; insomnia or excessive sleepiness
• changes in behavior
• lack of interest in activities
• frequent bouts of crying
• low energy
• feelings of hopelessness
• social isolation
• extreme sensitivity
• frequent complaints of physical illness
• poor concentration in school
• thoughts about running away from home

If you’re thinking “That sounds like any and every child”, bear in mind that most people will suffer some form of a depressive illness at some point throughout their life.  If you see warning signs in your child, discuss a course of action with their pediatrician.

While losing weight may be enough to cure your obese child of their depression, weight loss is by no means a guarantee that your child will be happier.  It is important to reinforce the fact that you do love your child, no matter what size they are (I know you know that, but make sure you tell them that every single day) and that you support their new healthy lifestyle, by leading by example!