Published on 18 December 2025
Anxiety disorders remain the most common mental health issue in the UK, with the Mental Health Foundation reporting that 60% of adults have experienced anxiety that interferes with their daily lives. While the emotional and psychological symptoms of anxiety are widely recognised, its physical effects - particularly on weight - are often overlooked.
Studies have shown a complex two-way association between obesity and risk of psychological distress: people with anxiety or depression are more likely to gain weight, and those who are obese are more likely to experience mental health issues. Understanding this link is crucial for managing both mental and physical health.
Food and mood: The science
Anxiety can lead to weight gain through several pathways. One of the most significant is emotional eating - the tendency to consume food, especially high-calorie or sugary items, in response to stress or negative emotions.
Observational studies have shown an association between higher anxiety symptom severity and unhealthy diet patterns. A recent UK-based study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that depressive and anxiety symptoms were factors, amongst others, associated with increasing Body Mass Index (BMI) over 4 years.
According to the NHS, symptoms of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) include fatigue, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping, which can reduce energy levels and physical activity. Moreover, anxiety can increase cortisol levels - a stress hormone which can increase appetite and thus contribute to weight gain over time.
Weight gain is also a possible side effect of some types of antidepressants prescribed for anxiety, although each individual responds to antidepressants differently.
Managing anxiety-related weight gain
Effective methods to relieve anxiety can vary hugely from one person to another. The key is to find a method that works for you. Whilst you may not always be able to avoid or control the external sources of anxiety in your life, you can adopt strategies to minimise the impact they have on your body:
1. Speak to your GP
If anxiety is affecting your daily life, consult your GP, who may refer you to talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which can help address both anxiety and emotional eating patterns.
2. Keep a food/mood diary to help practice mindful eating
Keep a diary of what you eat and drink over a fortnight, along with how you were feeling at the time. This may help you spot a correlation between your mood and food intake and help you recognise your triggers for emotional eating. Having a clearer picture of how mood affects what you eat can help you develop meal plans to support regular eating and manage your emotions in other ways.
Studies have shown that people can resort to emotional eating during periods of stress or anxiety, gravitating towards foods high in fat, sugar and calories.
Paying attention to hunger cues, eating slowly, and avoiding distractions can help reduce emotional eating.
3. Physical activity
Exercise is a proven way to reduce anxiety and manage weight. Even moderate activity, such as walking or yoga, can help regulate mood and improve sleep. According to NICE guidelines, physical activity should be a core component of any weight management plan.
4. Support networks
Charities like Anxiety UK and Mind offer support groups, therapy referrals, and self-help resources. These organisations understand the lived experience of anxiety and can provide tailored advice for managing both mental health and lifestyle.
5. Medication review
If you’re on medication and experiencing weight gain, speak to your GP. They may adjust your dosage or explore alternative treatments.
When to seek medical advice
If you notice rapid or sustained weight gain alongside symptoms of anxiety - such as persistent worry, fatigue, or sleep disturbances - it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention can prevent long-term health complications such as type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
Access support
At Benenden Hospital, we offer a comprehensive non-surgical weight loss management service, combining medical support from our Private GP, nutritional therapy, physiotherapy and exercise support.
It’s easy to book your appointment online. For more information, call our Private Patient team on 01580 363158 or request a call back via our enquiry form.