Obesity has been a life long struggle. While myself and fifty percent of adults in the United States are battling obesity, the psychological effects have become larger than the obesity itself. Not only are we forced to deal with the physical effects of being overweight, I, like others have had to overcome the psychological effects as well. Low self esteem has been a challenge and has ultimately fueled my bout with depression. Although obesity, low self esteem, and depression are three separate issues, they are all linked and are all relevant to not only me, but to millions of Americans.
OBESITY
Obesity, as defined as a body weight fifteen percent or more above the ideal for one's height and age. It is typically evaluated by
Those who suffer from low self esteem may also poor social skills, lack of assertiveness, and have a tendency for obsessive compulsive disorder. Low self esteem can have an enormous effect on a person's life. According to a brochure published by the University of Texas at Austin Counseling and Mental Health Center, low self esteem can have devastating consequences. It can be a cause of anxiety, stress, and loneliness. It can adversely affect job performance, academics, and relationships with family and friends. Those who suffer from low self esteem are more likely to suffer from drug or alcohol abuse and even suicide. While for me, and many others, obesity led to low self esteem, low self esteem can ultimately lead to obesity.
DEPRESSION
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders states that a depressed mood is often reported as being "…depressed, sad, hopeless, discouraged, or 'down in the dumps'". Basically, it is considered a state of unhappiness or sadness. Depression can come in different forms that vary in severity. Major depression is a form that interferes with a person's ability to sleep, work, eat, and enjoy generally pleasure able activities. It can occur once, but when prevalent, occurs several times in one's lifetime. Dysthymia is a less severe but a more common form of depression that most people experience at some point in their lives. It is not a