Researchers are finding empirical evidence linking obesity and depression. Which is the barbecued chicken and which is the fried egg is not yet clear. As they say "you're eating because you're depressed, and you're depressed so you're eating". Of course we all knew this but what is great is that there is research being conducted into these links in order to help overweight/obese people.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/245910.php
And righteous comments in the article about the stigma of obesity.
Go Dr Stephanie Fulton:
"Although popular culture jokes about these illnesses and even mocks the people who are suffering, obesity is a serious and major public health issue that already affects hundreds of millions of people. As a society, we must avoid creating stigma and discriminating against obese and depressed people. With regards to research, it is urgent that we identify the molecules and neural pathways involved in obesity and obesity-related illnesses. My colleagues and I are committed to identifying the brain circuitry involved in these diseases and to improving the tools available to researchers working in the same field."
What can each of us do to get off the food/mood treadmill? Perhaps a key step is to stop regarding overweight as some awful personal defect that completely defines us. Everyone has coping strategies - but things like drinking, cutting and overspending aren't quite as obvious. (No one walks around with their massive, overdue credit card statement stuck to their chest.) So should we call them as lazy, stupid and lacking in self control as obese people? No, no, no. We want people to adjust their thinking about obese people from the derogatory descriptors to "oh dear, I wonder what's eating that poor soul". And obese people out there, listen up. That goes for you too.
I like the idea of helping people to move from judgement to compassion and understanding of what might be 'eating at' that person. It's certainly a challenge for me.
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