Childhood Obesity - Do you have an overweight child? We offer tips to help your child lose weight and get fit!

The My Overweight Child blog will help you keep informed about the latest research, findings, and resources available to parents of overweight or obese kids. There are many knowledgeable people working on the increasingly dire problem of childhood obesity - and we want to give parents a place where they can check in regularly to see the latest studies and tips available to help you help your child lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

We invite you to add your comments - if you have feedback for the blog, would like some specific topics covered, or you just want to share your experience as a parent dealing with childhood obesity.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Obesity and Mental Health

Obese children have an increased risk for emotional problems that may carry into adulthood. Much of this has to do with being teased about being overweight, which can contribute to low self-esteem and depression. In fact, according to a recent study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), adolescents who are teased about their weight are more likely to contemplate and attempt suicide.

What are some signs that your child is experiencing emotional distress?
  • Decreased interest in activities that he has enjoyed in the past
  • Reluctance to make friends, has few friends
  • Anxiety or reluctance to attend school
  • Appears sad, angry, isolated
  • Sleeps too little or too much
  • Expresses thoughts of hurting himself
Talk to your family physician if your child has any of these symptoms; she may need help from a mental health specialist to deal with her emotions.

Posted By: Lori S