Serious Psychological Issues

People with untreated mental health problems and those without treatment experience greater health disparities than the typically healthy peers they tend to resemble. Approximately 6 percent of all U.S. residents (12.3 million individuals) suffer from some form of mental health problem each year. These figures are likely affected by under-reporting due to stigma or embarrassment of mental health conditions.

Because of stigma and social anxiety, depression, anxiety and other mental disorders remain relatively misunderstood, even unknown. This holds true for the general population but is particularly true for those affected by serious mental disorders such as bipolar and schizophrenia. Studies have shown that many people with these conditions do not seek treatment for fear of becoming stigmatized or outed. Fortunately, there are several preventative interventions available that can help individuals suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues.

There has been much research on the negative effects of depression and substance use on overall mental health, but very little research has explored the potential benefits of sugary sweetened drinks. A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that teens who drank sugary beverages between the ages of twelve and sixteen had higher odds of depression. The study went on to determine that those who drank sugary drinks were at a greater risk of suicide in both girls and boys. Suicide attempts rose nearly twenty-five percent in these adolescents. Because sugary beverages are predominantly calories, weight gain is also a common side effect of sugary soda consumption. Weight gain in itself poses a health risk for many individuals, but combining this risk with depression and sugary soda consumption is a very potent combination.

Stressed individuals tend to be less physically active than others. While it is unclear how stress itself may lead to mental health issues, studies have shown that those who are under stress for long periods of time may experience poorer mental health and physical health outcomes. Stressors such as work and school, issues with relationships, and financial difficulties may contribute to an improved immune system and greater resilience to disease. However, prolonged stress may lead to substance use disorders.

Stress-related depression is a serious problem in today’s society. Long-term stress, whether resulting from work or school, relationship problems, or finances, can weaken the immune system and decrease the body’s ability to fight off infection. Depressed individuals may experience symptoms of anxiety, such as restlessness, overeating, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Many people who are depressed do not seek treatment because they do not recognize that their depression is associated with stress, which makes it easier for them to fall back into a state of denial and worsen their mental health conditions.

When considering the connection of sugary soda and mental health, there are many factors that should be considered. It is believed that sugary drinks have been linked to higher rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and tooth decay in the United States. There are a number of pollutants as well as toxins in sugary drinks as well. It is suggested that individuals reduce their consumption of carbonated beverages as well as increase their consumption of non-carbonated beverages. For better overall well-being, it is recommended that individuals cut back on tobacco and alcohol consumption as well.

Psychological illnesses include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, fear of death or loss, phobias, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social isolation. People who are suffering from depression, anxiety, fear of death or loss, and post-traumatic stress disorder may also experience physical illnesses such as physical fatigue, pain, and swelling of the face, neck, or head. Physical illnesses are often the result of living in a socially isolated setting. People who suffer from emotional distress, anxiety, and depression may also be prone to developing physical illnesses.

Eating disorders include but are not limited to anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge eating, and overeating. A person who is involved with an eating disorder may also engage in self-harm or may exhibit extreme levels of violence towards themselves or others when they are unable to control their eating disorders. Many eating disorders can lead to serious psychological disorders, which in turn can have far-reaching consequences on a person’s emotional well being and quality of life. In order to prevent these potentially life-threatening mental health issues from developing, it is recommended that individuals engage in a regular exercise routine and eat a healthy diet.