Assess the Psychological General Well-Being among Adolescent with Obesity in Selected Schools at Pokhara: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Childhood Obesity, is a serious medical condition that affects children and adolescents whose BMI at or above the 95th percen- tile for children and teens of the same age and sex. It is particularly troubling because the extra pounds often start children on the path to health problems. Childhood obesity associated with psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. Low self-esteem and lower self-reported quality of life. Social problems such as bullying and stigma. The aim of the study was to assess the level of psychological general well-being of adolescent with obesity and to find out the association between the level of psychological general well-being and selected socio-demographic variables of adolescent with obesity.

MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Shishu Niketan and Triveni public schools of Pokhara, Nepal from 28/02/2023 to 27/03/2023 adolescents with BMI of 95th or more than 95th percentile was enrolled in the study from 10-19 age in years group after obtaining assent and consent from parents, child, and school authority.

RESULTS Out of 65 sample, 20% had moderate, 75% had good and only 4.6% had high level of psychological general well-being. Place of residence is significant P=0.001.

CONCLUSION Childhood obesity is a condition where excess body fat negatively affects a child's health or well-being which affects psycholog- ical well-being of children, leads to anxiety, low self-esteem. Schools play a large role in preventing childhood obesity by providing a safe and supporting environment with policies and practices that support healthy behaviors as well as parents.