Recent data are shedding new light on a lesser-known benefit of GLP‑1 medications: their potential to improve mental health outcomes. As the use of GLP‑1 receptor agonists like liraglutide and semaglutide becomes widespread in obesity treatment, understanding their full impact—including on psychological well-being—is more important than ever.
New study, new hope
A large cohort study published in Nature Medicine (August 2024) followed more than 2 million adults newly diagnosed with overweight or obesity in the U.S. healthcare system. Researchers assessed whether those who began GLP‑1 treatment (liraglutide or semaglutide) experienced changes in their risk of depression and anxiety compared to those treated with bupropion-naltrexone or no anti-obesity medication at all.
The results were striking:
- Patients treated with liraglutide had a 48% lower risk of developing depression.
- Those treated with semaglutide had a 43% lower risk of developing anxiety disorders.
- Compared to bupropion-naltrexone, GLP‑1s were significantly more protective across both categories.
This is the largest study to date evaluating the mental health impact of modern anti-obesity drugs.
Why does this matter?
Obesity is often linked with high rates of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Yet most weight loss treatments have historically overlooked these dimensions. The evidence that GLP‑1s may also support mental well-being—either through metabolic improvements, brain signaling, or behavioral feedback—could mark a turning point.
For patients struggling with both physical and emotional aspects of obesity, this adds a powerful reason to consider and persist with treatment.
What it means for Boli
At Boli, we believe that treating obesity means more than lowering the number on the scale. Supporting patients day-to-day—especially through side effects, doubts, or emotional fatigue—is essential to success.
That’s why Boli offers:
- Daily check-ins and symptom tracking, including mood and fatigue
- Behavioral support to encourage consistent routines and self-care
- Educational content that makes patients feel seen, not blamed
If mental health is part of the outcome, it must also be part of the care model.
Looking ahead
As GLP‑1 medications evolve into the cornerstone of modern obesity therapy, it’s time to move beyond weight loss alone. Mental health is not a side benefit—it’s a central piece of long-term success.
And with tools like Boli, we can support patients more holistically—physically, emotionally, and behaviorally.
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Sources:
Minges et al. (2024). Risk of depression and anxiety after initiation of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Nature Medicine, 30(8):1891–1899. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41230025
