Mental and social impact of obesity

In addition to physical complaints, obesity plays a key role in psychological complaints. Obese patients are more likely to suffer from anxiety disorders and depression. These psychological problems are usually the result of a complex interaction of several factors:

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• Hormonal mechanisms

• Physical complaints

• Society's prejudices towards overweight/obese people

• Low self-esteem

• Negative experiences of various previous (failed) diet attempts

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Discrimination towards overweight or obese people in the labor market, among health care providers and in social and cultural life is common. This interplay of factors, in turn, often leads to a more unhealthy diet resulting in a vicious circle.