Mental illness linked to obesity

9 October 2009 07:59am

People with mental health problems in the UK are more likely to avoid gyms and more physical exercise due to embarrassment and concerns others would judge them, a survey has said.

The Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) said their research helps to explain why people with common mental health problems, including anxiety and depression, are twice as likely to become obese as those who do not.

Out of 112 people with mental health problems who were questioned, 9% said they would be too embarrassed and 11% said they worried people would judge them.

Of the 138 people who did not have a mental health problem, 1% said they would be too embarrassed and 2% were concerned about being judged.

The survey also found that people with mental health problems were four times more likely to have diabetes and more than twice as likely to say they have high blood pressure as those with no mental health history.

Billy Watson, SAMH chief executive, said: "Our research presents compelling evidence that people with mental health problems often feel unable to attend local exercise facilities.

"This must be addressed by ensuring that such facilities do not discriminate against people with mental health problems.

"We believe it is crucial that mental health problems and obesity do not become an inevitable partnership and immediate action is required to address this."

Ten people with current mental health problems said they had diabetes compared to three people out of the group with no history of mental health problems.

A total of 23 of those with current mental health problems said they had experienced high blood pressure in the last five years compared to 14 people with no mental health problems.

© The Press Association