Obesity and bipolar disorder affect millions of individuals around the world, and when they happen together, managing both can become a difficult challenge. Knowing how these two conditions work and interact can help identify effective treatment strategies and improve the quality of life for the affected individuals.
In this blog, we will answer the most common questions associated with obesity and bipolar disorder, the link they share, and discuss what treatment options are available for those managing these conditions.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
It is a mental health condition that causes drastic and extreme mood swings, this can include episodes of mania (high energy, elevated mood) and depression (low energy, sadness). These mood swings or “shifts” can affect someone’s behavior, energy levels, and ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. This disorder usually requires long-term management with a combination of medications, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
It’s important to note that it is more complex than just mood fluctuations; it can impact a person’s mental and physical health, relationships, and quality of life overall. When it happens alongside being overweight, it becomes an even greater difficulty, and the challenges can be even more profound.
How Is Obesity Linked to Bipolar Disorder?
Research has shown that there is a more high and prevalent chance of overweight individuals with bipolar disorder. Various factors can be said to contribute to this link, this can include:
- Medication side effects: Certain types of medications used to manage this condition such as specific mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics, can cause weight gain, and can lead to future issues such as being overweight.
- Inactivity during depressive episodes: During these periods of depression, some individuals facing this disorder may experience low energy and lack of motivation, decreasing physical activity, which can cause weight gain over time.
- Emotional eating: Individuals with this condition may turn to food for comfort during these depressive episodes, this can increase the risk of developing unhealthy eating habits and being overweight.
- Difficult sleep disturbances: inconsistent sleep patterns and schedule, this is common for individuals dealing with this condition and has been linked to certain metabolic changes that can cause weight gain.
How Does Obesity Affect Bipolar Disorder?
Obesity can directly affect the symptoms of bipolar disorders and make its condition more challenging to manage alone. Individuals who are overweight may experience some increased mood swings and fatigue, and it presents a challenge in managing their mental health.
In addition, obesity has been noted to be linked to lower levels of attachment to treatment plans. Thus this can lead to a higher frequency of mania episodes or depression, creating a ruthless cycle.
However, obesity is known to be shared with numerous health complications, these can include diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. All of these conditions can add to the physical and emotional burden of individuals living with this condition, further influencing their well-being.
What Are the Treatment Options for Obesity and Bipolar Disorder?
Both obesity and bipolar disorder require a complete treatment, with a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to both. Medical professionals work closely with patients dealing with these conditions, developing tailored treatment plans for each patient to combat these conditions without intensifying the other. The following are some treatment strategies that are normally used to treat these conditions:
Medications
While medications are important for treating bipolar disorder, some of them can contribute negatively to weight gain. It’s crucial to speak with a medical professional about what medications can be prescribed or if there are any other options or alternatives available.
Certain types of medications may have a lower impact of causing weight gain and changing to some of these options might be an alternative for some individuals. Always make sure to consult a doctor or health professional before making any decisions on changing medications.
Changes in Diet
A healthy diet is vital for both controlling obesity and bipolar disorder. Emotional eating and unhealthy eating habits can contribute to weight gain, consulting with a dietitian or working together with a nutritionist can significantly help.
Opting for a diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables can greatly improve both mental and physical health. Removing processed foods and sugars from your diet can also improve and regulate your mood and energy levels.
Exercise
A routine of physical exercise can greatly benefit both obesity and bipolar disorder. Doing exercise makes the body release endorphins, which can aid in stabilizing mood and also can improve health overall. In addition, physical activity plays a critical role in weight management, as just average activities like walking or even swimming can make a significant difference over time.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Therapy with CBT can aid individuals in catching these negative thought patterns and behaviors, being especially effective in managing emotional eating and mood swings in bipolar disorder. Provide patients with efficient strategies to handle the emotional challenges of managing obesity and bipolar disorder.
Bariatric Surgery
For some individuals struggling with being overweight and who have not yet been able to successfully lose weight via just diet and exercise alone, bariatric surgery can help achieve a significant and sustainable weight loss that improves both physical and mental health.
At LIMARP, our team of medical professionals and certified surgeons can offer a wide range of options for bariatric surgery, customized to each patient and their unique needs and health goals.
Can Treating Obesity Help Improve Bipolar Disorder?
If considering bariatric surgery, it is crucial for patients to work hand in hand with their mental health providers, medical professionals, and bariatric surgeons. To make sure that there is complete coverage of health and can help to make the decision and recover.
With a combination of psychological therapy, diet, exercise, and if needed, bariatric surgery, it’s possible to improve mood and increase energy levels, as well as minimize the chance of having mood swings. Additionally, weight loss can greatly help reduce the risk of other health conditions that may make managing them more difficult.
Contact
LIMARP is here to help, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our personalized treatment options and how we can help you achieve your wellness goals and quality of life. By working together we can achieve long-term success and improve your life.
Resources
If you wish to learn more about these conditions or to get more information about what treatments are available and what can be done, try the following links to sources of reputable institutions that focus on treating these conditions. Remember to talk to a medical professional before deciding on what treatment options are best for you and your specific case, and to achieve all of your goals towards a healthier life.