Maladaptive coping predicts less weight loss for patients with increased levels of anxiety and depression, while interpersonal coping predicts more weight loss for those with low levels of anxiety and depression, according to a paper published in Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases. For the study, Emily M. Bartholomay, PhD, and colleagues analyzed data from 841 patients who received bariatric surgery. The researchers identified significant interactions between anxiety and depression on the association between interpersonal coping and percent excess weight loss. Higher anxiety and depression levels moderated this relationship, and maladaptive coping predicted less excess weight loss. Conversely, interpersonal coping was more effective in promoting weight loss among patients with lower anxiety and depression levels. Intrapersonal coping did not significantly interact with anxiety and depression but positively predicted excess weight loss at 24 months post-surgery. The study team noted that these findings highlight the importance of addressing mental health in patients undergoing bariatric surgery, as well as tailoring coping strategies to individual psychological profiles to enhance weight loss outcomes.
