Children between the ages of 12 and 16 who have a higher body mass index (BMI) are at a greater risk of developing symptoms of depression, according to a new study. The research, conducted by experts from the Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine and the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, analyzed data from over 10,000 twins in the Twins Early Development Study (TEDS) and the UK Adult Twin Registry (TwinsUK).
The study focused on twins born between 1994 and 1996 who self-reported depressive symptoms such as low mood, loneliness, and exhaustion. Researchers examined the relationship between BMI and depression at ages 12, 16, and 21. They discovered that children with a higher BMI between the ages of 12 and 16 were more likely to develop depression compared to those between ages 16 and 21. Additionally, the study revealed that children with a higher BMI at an early age were more prone to developing depression later in life than those who initially experienced depression and later developed a higher BMI.
Dr. Ellen Thompson, the first author of the study, emphasized the importance of understanding the link between mental health and weight during adolescence in order to provide timely support. The study demonstrated a stronger association between having a higher BMI at the age of 12 and experiencing depression symptoms at the age of 16, rather than the reverse.
The findings also indicated that the connection between BMI and depression was mainly influenced by environmental factors. Dr. Thompson hypothesized that body dissatisfaction and weight-related stigma from external sources could be contributing factors, although the study did not delve into the specific reasons. Interestingly, the research adjusted for socio-economic status and found that poverty did not affect the relationship between depression symptoms and weight.
This study highlights the crucial period between ages 12 and 16 as a susceptible and potentially harmful time for young individuals, suggesting that preventive measures would be beneficial. Promoting positive body image messages and providing support structures for adolescents could help counteract depressive symptoms. Professor Thalia Eley, co-senior author of the study, emphasized the intertwined nature of mental health and obesity, expressing concern for the well-being of Britain’s youth and underlining the importance of working with young teenagers to cultivate a positive body image and focusing on health and well-being rather than weight.
The study also investigated the relationship between BMI and depression in later life, using data from the TwinsUK cohort, which primarily consists of older adult twins. The findings revealed that this relationship was significantly weaker in later life, prompting further investigation into the reasons for these changes over the course of an individual’s life.
In conclusion, this comprehensive study sheds light on the higher risk of depression symptoms in children with a higher BMI between the ages of 12 and 16. By understanding and addressing this association, timely support can be provided to young individuals, potentially alleviating the long-term impact of depression.
