Weight stigma and mental health in a racially and ethnically diverse sample of US adults.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Weight stigma is associated with poor mental health outcomes. Yet little is known about whether the strength of the association between weight stigma and mental health outcomes differs by race or ethnicity, or factors that mitigate the mental health consequences of weight stigma. This study sought to address these research gaps.

Methods

A large sample of US adults (N = 2,632; aged 18-64 years; 50% women) completed an online survey. Quota sampling ensured that over two-thirds of respondents self-identified as Black/African American or Hispanic/Latino. Our primary predictors were experienced and internalized weight stigma. Primary outcomes included global mental health, depression severity, and history of diagnosis with a depressive disorder. Linear and logistic m

SUBMITTER: Gerend MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12319583 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature