• Is obesity considered a psychiatric disorder?

My mom thinks my mental health has a lot to do with my weight because I apparently "eat my feelings". Maybe it's true, but I don't know. I'm borderline obese, and my mom is really concerned. Is obesity considered a physical and mental condition? What can I do to help it?

3 Answers

  • Psychiatrist
  • South Miami, FL

Obesity is not considered a psychiatric disorder, however, the cause of your eating patterns can be. If your relationship with food is unhealthy and you use it to cope with stressors, then that can be a problem and can be worked through in therapy to build healthy and new coping skills that can help you manage stress differently.

  • Psychiatrist
  • Greenvale, NY

It can be either. Obesity is often caused by trying to deal with uncomfortable feelings, but it can have other causes also. If you feel that you want to lose weight a program like Weight Watchers can be a big help. If this doesn't work you can look into a psychological cause.

  • Psychiatrist
  • Guaynabo, Puerto Rico

Hello,

Eating obsessively can be a disorder of control. But obesity can be a metabolic problem. Consult your physician to see how your general state of health is. If you are eating compulsively, you can also consult a mental health professional. 

Victor M. Santiago-Noa, MD

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