The Link Between Depression and Weight Gain

Weight gain is a frequently overlooked consequence of depression, a mental health condition that is typified by enduring feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. The link between depression and weight gain is complex and significant, influencing numerous aspects of an individual's life. This article delves into this connection and its repercussions on both mental and physical health.

Depression's Impact on Eating Habits

According to Harvard Medical School's findings, diet and depression have a directly link and correlation. One of the significant ways depression can lead to weight gain is through its impact on eating habits.

Emotional Eating

Depression often results in emotional eating, a coping mechanism where individuals use food to help them deal with their feelings. This can lead to consuming large quantities of high-calorie, nutrient-poor foods, which can contribute to weight gain.

Changes in Appetite

For some people, depression increases their appetite. They may feel a constant urge to eat, even when they're not physically hungry. This can result in the consumption of extra calories and eventual weight gain.

The Role of Physical Activity and Sleep

Depression also affects physical activity and sleep patterns, both of which can contribute to weight gain.

Reduced Motivation for Physical Activity

Depression can lead to reduced motivation and energy, making it difficult for individuals to engage in regular physical activity. Exercise is a critical component of maintaining a healthy weight. A lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or hypersomnia, are common symptoms of depression. Poor sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate hunger and appetite, leading to overeating and weight gain.

The Biological Connection

There's also a biological aspect to the relationship between depression and weight gain.

Stress Hormones

Depression is linked to an increase in the stress hormone cortisol. Elevated levels of cortisol can lead to an increase in appetite and cravings for sugary, fatty foods, which can contribute to weight gain.

Antidepressant Medications

Some antidepressant medications can cause weight gain as a side effect. The exact reason for this is not entirely understood, but it's believed to be due to changes in metabolism or increased appetite.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the link between depression and weight gain is important in creating effective treatment plans. Therapeutic strategies that address both mental health and physical health can be beneficial. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and managing stress can help manage weight while improving mood and overall well-being. If you're struggling with depression and weight gain, reach out to a healthcare provider for support and guidance. It's important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and the first step towards recovery.

Grouport Offers Online Group Therapy & Online DBT Skills Group


Grouport Therapy
provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapists lead weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.


You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our groups today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.

We also offer skills groups, such as our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. Our DBT Skills Group, is a therapist-led module driven group that will provide you new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections, building social skills concerning relationship issues, improving emotion regulation & distress tolerance, and developing deeper mindfulness.

Join a Group Support Session for Depression

We infuse cognitive behavioral techniques in our group therapy sessions for depression. Get effective and affordable treatment for depression.

Space is limited, so reserve your seat today.