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30.10.2024 09:18
Research results, Transfer of Science or Research

The link between obesity, social isolation and mental health

Data from 8350 participants in the LIFE Adult Study were analyzed for the research publication by the Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Medicine and Public Health.
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Data from 8350 participants in the LIFE Adult Study were analyzed for the research publication by the Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Medicine and Public Health. | Quelle: Photo: Colourbox | Download

Researchers at Leipzig University have examined the complex relationships between obesity, social isolation and mental health in the German adult population. Their findings show that socially isolated obese people are at increased risk of mental illness. Particularly at risk are the elderly, the widowed and men of lower socio-economic status. The researchers used data from the LIFE Adult study with a sample of 8350 participants.

“In our modern society, a significant proportion of people are lonely and socially isolated, especially those with obesity. Our study findings underline the need to develop targeted interventions to support those affected,” says Charlyn Görres, psychologist and doctoral researcher at the Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Medicine and Public Health (ISAP).

The study also highlights the challenges that people with obesity and co-occurring mental illness pose to the healthcare system. “We need to raise awareness of the interdependence between physical and mental health,” says PD Dr Margrit Löbner, head of the research group at ISAP and one of the main authors of the study. According to the authors, mindfulness campaigns and workshops could help raise awareness of these issues and improve people’s quality of life.

Translation: Matthew Rockey

Wissenschaftlicher Ansprechpartner:
PD Dr. rer. med. habil. Margrit Löbner
Leader of research group “Health services research and (e-)mental health across the life span”
Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Medicine and Public Health (ISAP)
Phone: +49 341 97 24591
Email: margrit.loebner@medizin.uni-leipzig.de

Originalpublikation:
Original publication in Bundesgesundheitsblatt:
Der Zusammenhang zwischen Adipositas, sozialer Isolation und psychischer Gesundheit - Ergebnisse der LIFE-Adult-Studie.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00103-024-03940-3

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