Tenn Psych

Teen Obesity is an ongoing epidemic worldwide. Waistlines continue to expand, and each new generation seems to be affected more than the previous one. The rise of overweight teenagers is one of the most troubling weight issues facing western societies today.

We all know teenage life is difficult enough without adding the many health and self esteem issues related to obesity. There are a growing number of teens facing depression solely for weight related issues. The sad reality is that often the negative health affects facing these teens are insignificant compared to the psychological ones.

So how does obesity affect teens?

There are obvious health issues which apply to everyone who battles obesity. Increased risk of strokes, heart attacks, hormonal problems, gastrointestinal issues, metabolic diseases such as diabetes and respiratory problems just to mention a few.

As mentioned earlier, while these health risks are scary and important to recognize, it’s the psychological state of obese teens that becomes really concerning.

Obese teenagers:

• Have a higher risk of suffering from depression.
• Have lower self esteem than many of their peers. This often leads to peer isolation.
• Are less likely to be accepted into college or higher education.
• Have a higher risk of behavioural problems.
• Are less likely to get married and
• Are more likely to be mistreated and allow themselves to be mistreated by others.

Considering the challenging time most teens have coming to grips with growing up, it is upsetting to think of the heartache that many teens are battling.

What’s more concerning is that many teens have no role model, or person to turn to for advice on how to change their lifestyle or to promote healthier options and weight loss.

There are steps that can easily be taken to help teens manage weight loss and give them the best chance at their start into the adult world. It is up to parents and role models to help teenagers find peace and overcome the burden that is obesity.