Adolescent Depression and Binge Eating are Linked, According to Study

The United States is plagued with many high profile health issues: two of the most prevalent are depression and obesity. Many Americans (one in 10), according to recent data, take antidepressants for depression, and millions more struggle with health issues brought on by obesity. In addition, many women who battled depression while pregnant took an antidepressant like Paxil, believing it was safe to do so. Unfortunately, some of these women gave birth to babies with alleged Paxil birth defects and have filed lawsuits against GlaxoSmithKline, the drug’s manufacturer, claiming that the company should have informed them of the dangers before they became pregnant.

Increased Screening Needed for Young Women Who Display Signs of Depression and Bingeing

A new study, conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School and published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, suggests that adolescent females who feel depressed are twice as likely to engage in binge eating as a result of their feelings. The opposite holds true as well: girls who engage in regular binge eating are at double the risk for depression.

Dr. Alison Field, senior author and an epidemiologist at Harvard Medical School and the Harvard School of Public Health, said, “Binge-eating prevention initiatives should consider the role of depressive symptoms and incorporate suggestions for dealing with negative emotions. This study could provide important new opportunities to address the nation’s obesity epidemic.”

The study looked at 5,000 girls aged 12 to 18 who were surveyed in 1999 and followed up with in 2001 and 2003. Boys were excluded from the study because of the prevalence of binging and depression in females in this age group.

The data collected from the initial survey and follow-ups showed that those who initially admitted to feeling consistently “depressed” or “down in the dumps” were about twice as likely to start overeating or binge-eating during the following two years.

Common approaches to treating obesity involve dietary modifications and exercise. But, with the data collected from this study, there is evidence to indicate that there could be psychological indicators that are being overlooked that result in girls and young women engaging in this behavior. Both symptoms of depression and overeating need to be addressed in order to treat both disorders. This study, according to researchers, was the largest of its kind that could help pave the way to treat these interrelated physical and emotional issues.

Protect Your Rights As a Consumer

It is important to discuss with your physician any side effects you experience while taking SSRIs such as Paxil, but if you or your child has suffered an injury from your medication, the Rottenstein Law Group can help. Our Paxil lawyers advocate for victims in consumer product injury cases, helping obtain compensation for pain and suffering and unforeseen medical costs. If you think you have a Paxil birth defects lawsuit please fill out our simple contact form and one of our lawyers will be in touch.

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