It seems addressing mental health when treating obesity and its related conditions is not just helpful — but essential.

Experts argue obesity shares many of the same physical causes and long-term effects as mental illness and the two conditions often exacerbate each other over time.

Dr. Arya Sharma of the Canadian Obesity Network says this critical relationship is often lost amid the usual messages most patients hear when seeking treatment for obesity or related conditions.

Sharma says people struggling with their weight often contend with mental stresses ranging from body image issues to serious mood disorders, all of which can hinder efforts to shed pounds.