The Relationship between Overweight and Obesity and Depressive Disorders among Adolescents: Upper Silesia, Poland

Background: Overweight and obesity are key health problems in many countries that affect an increasing number of teenagers. Among Polish children and adolescents, the most rapid weight gain, compared to other European countries has been noted. In addition, this excessive body weight usually coexists with depressive disorders. The epidemiological scale of the problem is worrisome. Objectives: Assessment of the prevalence of overweight, obesity and depressive disorders in adolescents, and identifying correlations between these disorders. Materials and Methods: A group of 1002 high school students was analyzed. Eating habits, regularity of meals and inclination towards snacking were assessed with the author’s survey, while depressive disorder was evaluated with The Beck Depression Inventory questionnaire. Data were processed with STATISTICA 12.0. Results: In the study group of adolescents, 24.7% suffered from overweight and obesity. Excessive body weight was associated with poor nutritional habits and the problem of excess body mass in the participants’ families. In addition, overweight and obesity were more pronounced in boys (28,5%) and the type of school also played a role. Depressive disorders were revealed in 43.3% of the students, in which case girls were more affected (49.9%). More depressive disorders were reported in overweight and obese students (60.4%), including 71.1% of girls. Among adolescents with depressive disorders, 62.8% reported emotional eating, while excessive body weight exacerbated that problem (76.4%). Nearly 62.7% of the students with depressive disorder showed reduced concentration and learning difficulties. Similarly, up to 70% of overweight and obese students revealed learning problems. Conclusions: Rates of overweight and obesity among adolescents are alarming, and nearly half of them suffer from depressive disorders, reduced concentration and learning difficulties. Moreover, excessive body weight exacerbates depressive disorders, concentration and learning difficulties. There is a necessity to provide health education to adolescents, their parents, and teachers at an early stage of the development.