Though obesity has long been linked to a number of physical health problems, a new study suggests that overweight adults may also have a higher risk of psychiatric disorders.

Researchers at the University of Connecticut Health Center examined data on more than 40,000 Americans and found that obese adults were up to two times more likely than those of normal weight to suffer from depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions.

The researchers say that more research needs to be done to establish the causes for the links. However, they add that overeating to cope with stress could be a factor.

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