Study of the relationship between depression levels and emotional eating behaviors of adult individuals during the COVİD-19 pandemic

It is estimated that depression levels along with the covid-19 pandemic process increase the risk of emotional eating, individuals tend to unhealthy foods more, this leads to a noticeable increase in obesity, and therefore may face many health problems. This study was planned to decipher the relationship between depression levels and emotional eating behaviors of adult individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 545 voluntary adult individuals, 397 women and 148 men, aged 19-64, made up the sample of the study. The questionnaire was collected online using Google Forms to determine information about individuals ' socio-demographic characteristics, general health status and eating habits. The Turkish Emotional Eating Scale was used to determine the effect of changes in participants 'emotional states on individuals' eating behavior, and the Beck Depression Scale was used to determine individuals ' depression levels. 37.2% of adults were found to have emotional eating behavior, while 69.0% had mild, moderate and severe depression. A significant difference has been found between depression levels and the Turkish Emotional Eating Scale total score and sub-dimensions (p<0.05). It was determined that there was a significant difference between Beck Depression Scale total score, BMI values and Turkish Emotional Scale total score and sub-dimensions (p<0.01). Obese and slightly overweight participants were found to have a higher emotional eating score compared to individuals of normal body weight. These results confirm that increased body weight and obesity progress faster than necessary. During this period, it is thought that the share of competent decision makers is large in taking the necessary measures to prevent obesity and psychological problems quickly. In addition, as long as the pandemic continues, it is also important to update the studies and follow up the data.