Behavioral Management of childhood obesity
By Team PCPA
Childhood obesity rates have slowly been climbing in the United States. Over the past 30 years, obesity has more than doubled in children, and tripled in adolescents (www.cdc.gov). The physical effects of obesity have often been studied in adults, showing increased risk for Coronary Heart Disease, Hypertension, Stroke, High Cholesterol, Sleep Problems and Type II Diabetes. Similarly, many of these health problems are seen in obese children and adolescents, with increasing severity as they grow into adulthood. Chronic obesity beginning in childhood is further associated with higher rates of many different types of cancer (Nemet et al., 2005).
In addition to the physical concerns, obesity is associated with a number of psychological effects. It has been documented that clinical depression is three to four times more prevalent in obese individuals compared to non-obese populations (www.cdc.gov). Additionally, in childhood and adolescent populations, poor self-esteem and peer victimization are significant factors contributing to their depression.
While the treatment of physical and psychological symptoms of obesity is important, implementing strategies targeting eating behaviors and weight reduction are often the most effective treatment interventions. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has demonstrated significant short and long-term success rates in the treatment of obesity. Similarly, many behavioral interventions have been found to be effective in the prevention of childhood obesity, which can eliminate the development of the secondary physical and psychological problems (Kamath, et al., 2008). Primary Care Psychology Associates, LLC (PCPA) has clinicians in locations throughout the city and suburbs of Chicago trained in conducting these interventions and assisting individuals learn to manage cravings, develop appropriate coping mechanisms for stress, and set/achieve attainable weight-loss and fitness goals to promote positive physical and mental health. Our therapists work in close collaboration with all members of your medical team to increase the likelihood of a successful treatment.
Call or email today to find out more about the management of childhood obesity, and other services we provide at PCPA!
In addition to the physical concerns, obesity is associated with a number of psychological effects. It has been documented that clinical depression is three to four times more prevalent in obese individuals compared to non-obese populations (www.cdc.gov). Additionally, in childhood and adolescent populations, poor self-esteem and peer victimization are significant factors contributing to their depression.
While the treatment of physical and psychological symptoms of obesity is important, implementing strategies targeting eating behaviors and weight reduction are often the most effective treatment interventions. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has demonstrated significant short and long-term success rates in the treatment of obesity. Similarly, many behavioral interventions have been found to be effective in the prevention of childhood obesity, which can eliminate the development of the secondary physical and psychological problems (Kamath, et al., 2008). Primary Care Psychology Associates, LLC (PCPA) has clinicians in locations throughout the city and suburbs of Chicago trained in conducting these interventions and assisting individuals learn to manage cravings, develop appropriate coping mechanisms for stress, and set/achieve attainable weight-loss and fitness goals to promote positive physical and mental health. Our therapists work in close collaboration with all members of your medical team to increase the likelihood of a successful treatment.
Call or email today to find out more about the management of childhood obesity, and other services we provide at PCPA!
