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

Adults with more frequent exposure to interpersonal weight stigma and higher levels of internalized weight bias reported poorer mental health status. Notably, the strength of these associations was similar regardless of racial or ethnic identity suggesting no group is protected from the detrimental health effects associated with weight stigma. Individuals who respond to weight stigma with adaptive coping strategies may be more protected from adverse psychological outcomes. Findings have important implications for initiatives aimed at reducing harm to mental health that may be associated with weight stigma.