How Diet Affects Mental Health

Mental, emotional, and physical health overlap far more than we tend to acknowledge. Globally, mental and emotional health is not in a good place. In an era of ever-increasing digital “connectedness,” binge-watching TV, and around-the-clock smartphone use, we are more lonely and depressed than ever.

Major surveys agree:
-11% of all Americans over age 12 are taking antidepressant medications.
-23% of all women aged 40-69 are on antidepressants.
-Antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed medication for Americans aged 18-44.

And depression is closely linked to our physical wellness. For example, those that are depressed are more likely to be obese, and as the depression becomes more severe, the prevalence of obesity increases.

So you see how a feeling of helplessness, especially when it concerns our health and well-being, can be a heavy psychological burden. But what are we supposed to do about it?