Psychological Disorders (Depression)
What is it:
Depression is a serious medical illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts. Symptoms can include persistent sad, anxious or “empty” feelings; feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism; feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness; irritability, restlessness; loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex; fatigue and decreased energy; difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions; insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping; overeating, or appetite loss; thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts; persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment.
Who has it:
20 Million Americans.
Consequences:
Obesity and depression goes hand-in-hand in middle-aged women, a new U.S. study found (2008). According to the research, women with clinical depression were more than twice as likely to be obese, and obese women were more than twice as likely to be depressed. The research also found that women with BMIs of 30 or higher exercised the least, had the poorest body image, and consumed 20 percent more calories than women with lower BMIs.
health & happiness
(years of potential life lost (YPLL))
