It is no coincidence that 3 out of every 4 depressed patients in the United States are overweight. Yet, we as mental health professionals often neglect this key area of practice, focusing strictly on the mind and ignoring the body. Systemic inflammation has long been associated with and has been found to perpetuate depression, and a growing body of data indicates that one of the principal sources of inflammation is obesity, particularly visceral fat mass. In this evidence-based session, Dr. Shelton will highlight strategies for incorporating obesity as an end point for the treatment of depression and offer practical ways to prescribe a diet and exercise regimen designed to improve depressed mood.
