Skip to content

Depression Equals Weight Gain and What to Do About It


    Depression is a condition that can affect anyone. In fact, many people suffer from depression. Feeling hopeless and lacking energy are just a few of the symptoms of depression that can affect one’s life on a daily basis. One of the lesser known side effects of this condition is weight gain. This can be caused by prescribed medication as well as other factors related to the condition. If you are suffering from depression and weight gain, it is important to know there are steps you can take to improve your current situation.

    Depression and Antidepressants

    Many people who suffer from depression choose to improve their symptoms by taking antidepressant medication. Antidepressants can be a cause of weight gain, and while some of these medications are more likely to cause weight gain than others, everyone responds differently.

    Other Causes of Weight Gain

    Antidepressants are not always the main cause of weight gain. There are other factors that can be causing the numbers on the scale to go up such as overeating, aging, and an increase in hormone levels. Some people who suffer from depression may find they experience an increase in appetite or tend to eat more when they are feeling depressed.  Weight gain can also be caused by the aging process, which will require you to change your habits in order to lose a couple of pounds.

    What To Do About It?

     

    • Talk to You Doctor

     

    If you are experiencing weight gain and are taking an antidepressant, it wouldn’t hurt to have a conversation with your doctor. If you are thinking about starting an antidepressant, make sure to discuss all side effects with your doctor before trying it. Your physician might be able to help determine if a different dosage or type of medication could help you to lose weight. When it comes to finding the right medication, it might take some time. People react differently to various medications, so it is difficult to predict how a medication will affect you. Working alongside your doctor to make the right medication choices can help in losing weight and decreasing depression symptoms.

     

    • Look at Your Diet and Adjust

     

    There are always improvements that can be made with our diet. Start by keeping track of what you eat, when and how much, and how you are feeling that day. Look for patterns and connections between what you are eating and your mood. You can also try to change your eating habits by supplementing with exogenous ketones, which can help you with weight loss. If you are able to seek the advice of a dietician, they could help you figure out an eating plan that works for you. The key is eating the right kinds of foods to make your body feel full, so you don’t overeat when you are feeling emotional.

     

    • Increase Activity

     

    Exercise can do wonders for depression. While it is difficult to begin an exercise routine, just a few minutes a day can make a big difference. If you are experiencing emotional eating, taking the time to exercise can increase happy hormones in the brain, which can improve your mood. Feeling better can mean that you won’t overindulge when eating. Take a walk, ride your bike, or spend time with your loved ones outside. You can also join an adult sport team, which will help you stay active and give you the opportunity to meet new people and socialize on a consistent basis.

     

    • Make One Change at a Time

     

    When yearning to feel better, it is only natural to hope for a complete change overnight, but it doesn’t happen that way. Changing your lifestyle can be difficult and overwhelming. It is imperative that you make one small change at a time, give yourself a few days to adjust, and then make another small change. Remind yourself that permanent change can only happen over a period of time. You should also make sure to think positively about the small changes you are making. Changing your thinking can help you to feel more motivated.

     

    • Find Other Ways to Manage Stress

     

    Stress can have a direct impact on depression. When feeling overwhelmed at work or with life’s responsibilities, it is important to take time for yourself. You can help to improve your mood by finding a new hobby, trying yoga, or spending time with loved ones. These kinds of activities can help to improve your mood and help you lose weight.

    Gaining weight because of depression can cause a cycle of frustration. Depression can cause weight gain, and weight gain can cause depression. There are many steps you can take to ensure that you are leading a healthy and happy lifestyle. Reach out to your doctor and other support systems to help you through this difficult time. You don’t have to do this alone.