Mental health problems can make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight. Many people wish to shed a few kilos, yet for some individuals rapid weight loss or even weight loss for a short period may be one of the early warning signs of an underlying mental disorder, such as anorexia or depression. Other mental health issues may impact weight and appetite as well. Some of these issues are easier to remedy than others.
One of the first of the psychological issues that can lead to weight gain is depression. People suffering from depression have many challenges in maintaining a healthy physical state. Some of these challenges include difficulty losing weight, staying motivated when exercising or engaging in any form of physical activity, and sleeping patterns that are interrupted due to lack of sleep. Because of this, they may find that weight gain can exacerbate the negative effects of their depression.
People with mood disorders also commonly struggle with their weight. Mood disorders can range from mild to severe. Some of these disorders include bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic depression, and even social phobias. Each of these types of mental health issues impacts weight gain in different ways.
Bipolar disorder is often characterized by unusual changes in moods, which can include a high or low mood state. Someone with bipolar disorder may feel as though they are constantly elated or depressed. Someone with bipolar disorder may experience rapid mood fluctuations that occur several times per day. These mood fluctuations can lead to overeating and excessive calorie intake. In addition, they may experience an obsession with food and exercise excessively in order to control these moods.
Anxiety disorders can be treated through a variety of different methods. These conditions can include obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Other mental health disorders can include eating disorders, anorexia nervosa, and eating disordersomnia. Eating disorders can lead to weight gain due to the need to eat in order to relieve the discomfort and symptoms of these conditions.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is another common condition that can impact an individual’s weight. This condition causes an individual to repeatedly relive past traumatic experiences. Someone who has PTSD may go through an overwhelming amount of experiences that cause them intense trauma. These traumas can cause physical symptoms such as diarrhea, headaches, and stomach issues. Because of these symptoms, someone who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder may be more likely to gain excessive weight.
People who have schizophrenia can be affected by many mental health issues. Individuals with schizophrenia are more likely to suffer from depression, substance abuse, and other mental illnesses. Someone with schizophrenia may experience hearing voices in their heads, being obsessed with one subject, speaking in different languages, and may exhibit peculiar behaviors. Someone who suffers from a schizophrenia disorder may also be more prone to experiencing paranoia and hallucinations.
It is important to check with a doctor if you or someone you know may be suffering from any of these illnesses. Discussing these illnesses with a doctor early on can help prevent serious health complications in the future. It is also helpful to learn about the common treatments for these illnesses so that individuals who do not know how to treat their illnesses can seek out professional help. When it comes to mental health disorders, there is help available for those who seek it.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is helpful to seek treatment. Many times, treating the problem before it gets worse will make the person feel better and increase their chances of recovery. If you are having a difficult time treating a mental health issue in your loved one, contact a trained professional who can help. The earlier that a person receives treatment for any problem, the higher their chances of living a happier, healthier life.
There are a few common psychological disorders that affect millions of people each year. However, there are many more specific disorders that affect different people in different ways. Anxiety, depression, phobias, and obsessive compulsive disorder are all types of psychological disorders that can affect anyone. However, these disorders can be especially serious if they are left untreated. If you or someone you love needs help because of depression, anxiety, phobias, or another type of mental health issue, make sure to speak with a trained professional who can provide treatment.
Schizophrenia disorders are the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. People with this condition experience hallucinations, delusions, and believe things that aren’t true. People with this mental health issue are far more likely to commit suicide than others. If you or someone you know may be suffering from a severe mental health problem, contact a local professional who can provide treatment for them. If you or someone you love is showing signs of having a serious physical illness, contact a doctor immediately.