HELL’S KITCHEN

Certain mental health conditions can lead to unintentional weight loss. Depression often reduces appetite and motivation to eat, while anxiety can cause nausea or stomach issues that make eating difficult. Eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia involve extreme behaviors around food and weight, leading to significant weight changes. Other disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, may result in disorganized eating or paranoia around food during episodes. Weight Loss Affecting Mental Health Trying to lose weight, especially through strict dieting or excessive exercise, can negatively affect mental health. Obsessing over body image or calorie counting may lead to anxiety, depression, or disordered eating. Pressure from social media and unrealistic beauty standards can also make people feel inadequate or overly focused on their appearance. The Mind-Body Connection Physical and mental health are deeply linked. Poor nutrition from extreme dieting can lead to deficiencies that affect brain function and mood. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can interfere with appetite and fat storage. Additionally, gut health plays a role in mental well-being, so restrictive diets may impact how you feel emotionally. Warning Signs to Watch For Be aware of rapid weight loss, obsession with food or body image, withdrawal from social life, or sudden mood changes. These can be signs of an underlying mental health issue or an unhealthy approach to weight loss. When to Seek Help If you or someone you know is experiencing significant weight changes alongside mental health symptoms, it’s important to seek help. We have the best therapists providing guidance and support for mental, physical and emotional well-being.