Lipoedema and Mental Health

Living with lipoedema (lipodema) is far from easy on a daily basis. Beyond the physical challenges and lipodema symptoms such as pain, swelling, bruising, and heavy legs, many people also experience significant emotional and psychological strain. Low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, loneliness, isolation, and body image concerns are all commonly reported. Mental wellbeing can be deeply affected when living with lipoedema long term.

Physical and Psychological Impact

Lipoedema has a substantial effect on quality of life, and around 85% of patients say that lipoedema impacts their mental health. Managing ongoing lipodema symptoms alongside daily life can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally.

According to a report from the Delegation for Women’s Rights of the National Assembly, women are twice as likely as men to experience depression, and three times more likely to suffer from anxiety disorders.

Women are also more likely to be prescribed psychotropic treatments such as:

• Antidepressants and mood stabilisers
• Anti-anxiety medication
• Sleep medication
• In some cases, neuroleptic treatments

Different stages in a woman’s life - pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and later life can contribute to anxiety and depressive disorders. These are also the periods when lipoedema most commonly develops, due to hormonal changes.

Hormones play a strong role in both physical and emotional wellbeing. When combined with the physical lipodema symptoms, mental strain, and daily responsibilities, this creates an intense psychological burden.

Around 1 in 11 women are affected by lipoedema, a genetic and hormonally linked disorder of adipose tissue. The emotional toll of living with this condition is therefore understandable.

The Importance of Psychological Support

For this reason, we strongly believe that alongside medical and physical care, emotional and psychological support is just as essential. This support may be helpful at several stages:

• During daily life with lipoedema and throughout the diagnostic journey
• Once a diagnosis is confirmed
• Before and after surgical procedures
• In life after surgery, while adapting to physical and emotional changes

Support may come from psychologists, psychotherapists, or holistic therapists, depending on individual preference.

Everyday Mental Wellbeing Tips for Living with Lipoedema

There are also simple daily habits that can support emotional wellbeing:

Meditation and breathing exercises

Meditation helps calm negative thoughts and reduce stress. Even a short 10-minute session in the morning or before bed can be beneficial. Free guided sessions are available on YouTube and Spotify.

Journalling

Writing down thoughts and emotions can help release stress and bring clarity. You can reflect on worries, achievements, challenges, or moments of happiness.

Our free lipoedema guide also includes dedicated journaling spaces and practical advice.

Stay active

Physical activity is proven to support mental health. It doesn’t need to be intense. Find movement you enjoy and practice it regularly:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Hula hooping
• Gentle cycling

You can begin with 4,000 steps per day and gradually increase to 8,000 or 10,000 as your ability allows. To make it enjoyable:

• Walk with a loved one
• Listen to wellbeing podcasts or calming music

Water-based exercise

Swimming, aqua-aerobics, and aqua-cycling are especially recommended for people with lipoedema. Water provides natural drainage, helps reduce the heavy-leg sensation, and supports gentle movement.

→ Nutrition & Exercise for Lipoedema Management

Connect with others

You are not alone. Online support groups, forums, Facebook communities, and Instagram pages allow people with lipoedema to share experiences, advice, and emotional support.

Self-compassion

Remember: You are not your condition. Everyone’s journey is different. Your body, story, and experiences are unique and worthy of respect and care.

Feel free to share this article on social media and tell us what helps you support your mental wellbeing.
If you would like more advice and support, you can also download our free lipoedema guide.

♥︎ Continue Your Lipoedema Support Journey:

• Lipoedema Facts vs Myths: Understanding the Truth Behind the Condition
• What Is the Process of Lipoedema Surgery? Discover Sylvie’s Story
• Lipoedema Vs Cellulite: Understanding the differences
• Lipoedema Beyond the Legs: Recognising Symptoms Across the Body
• How to Measure for Lipoedema Compression Garments

Sources:

1. Clotilde Costil / Handicap.fr (2023) Women's Mental Health: A Report, 25 Recommendations, Handicap.fr [11/12/2023] https://informations.handicap.fr/a-sante-mentale-femmes-rapport-25-recommandations-35267.php
2. P MARTIN and AC VIOLLAND, National Assembly for Women's Rights and Equal Opportunities between Men and Women on Women's Mental Health. (2023) Information Report No. 1522. Paris: Presidency of the National Assembly. Available at: https://www.assemblee-nationale.fr/dyn/16/rapports/ega/l16b1522_rapport-information (Accessed: 11/12/2023)
3. Nicolas Zwillinger (2022) Balanced diet and regular exercise: 2 elements for a better life with lipedema, Lipoedeme-france.com [11/12/2023] https://lipoedeme-france.com/equilibre-alimentaire-lipoedeme-sport