Anyone who has tried to slim down knows how challenging and stressful it can be. From counting calories to sweating in the gym, losing weight is far from a breezy journey.

But while some may see positive results in their physical appearance, research has shown that slimming can also have adverse effects on our mental health. According to the study, slimming can trigger depressive symptoms that can worsen over time.

The link between slimming and depression

Slimming, or weight loss, can cause a host of physical changes in the body, such as decreased blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. However, there are also psychological changes that can occur when we embark on a weight-loss journey.

Initially, we may feel motivated and positive about the changes we’re making. Still, if we don’t see the results we want quickly, or if we experience setbacks such as plateaus or regained weight, it can be easy to become discouraged and despondent.

Moreover, people who are overweight or obese are often stigmatized and subjected to negative stereotypes, which can lead to low self-esteem, body image issues, and social isolation.

Losing weight can initially alleviate some of these pressures, but it can also create new ones. Some people may become obsessed with their weight and their appearance, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits or even eating disorders.

Others may struggle with the challenge of maintaining their weight loss, leading to feelings of failure and disappointment.

All these factors can add up to a significant strain on our mental health. Researchers have found that people who slim frequently exhibit symptoms of depression, such as low mood, irritability, and feelings of worthlessness.

This link can worsen over time, leading to a cycle of weight loss, weight gain, and worsening mental health.

What can we do to prevent depressive symptoms while slimming?

While it’s tough to know in advance if slimming will trigger depressive symptoms, there are some things we can do to reduce the risk. Here are some strategies:.

: Focus on health, not weight

Instead of setting unrealistic weight loss goals, focus on making healthy choices that will benefit your body and mind.

Aim to eat a nutritious, balanced diet, get enough sleep, practice stress-reducing activities like yoga or meditation, and engage in physical activity you enjoy. When you prioritize health over weight, you may find that your mood improves, and you are more likely to stick to your plan.

: Stay connected

Weight loss can be a lonely journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep in touch with friends and family members who support you and encourage you rather than criticize or shame you.

You may also want to consider joining a support group or even seeking professional help from a therapist who specializes in eating disorders and body image issues.

: Be kind to yourself

As important as it is to make healthy choices, it’s also crucial to be kind and compassionate to yourself. Remind yourself that losing weight is challenging and that setbacks are a normal part of the process.

Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would offer to a friend who is struggling.

: Set realistic goals

Instead of aiming for quick, drastic weight loss, set realistic, achievable goals that you can work towards over time. Avoid strict diets or extreme exercise routines that can be unsustainable and lead to frustration and disappointment.

Celebrate the small wins along the way and give yourself credit for the hard work you are putting in.

: Monitor your mood

Pay attention to your moods and emotions as you embark on your weight loss journey.

If you notice a shift towards negative thoughts or feelings of hopelessness and despair, it may be a sign that you need to make adjustments to your plan or seek professional help.

Conclusion

Losing weight can be a powerful way to improve our physical health, but it can also have unintended consequences for our mental health.

By focusing on health over weight, staying connected, being kind to ourselves, setting realistic goals, and monitoring our moods, we can reduce the risk of triggering depressive symptoms while slimming. At the same time, it’s crucial to remember that there is no one “right” way to be, and that our worth as human beings is not based on our appearance or our size.