Everyone knows that many respond to stress by eating. Results of an National Institute of Mental Health funded study show that nearly one out of four cases of obesity is associated with a mood or anxiety disorder, but the causal relationship and complex interplay between the two is still unclear. (July 3, 2006, issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry) Another study published in the “March/April 2006 issue of the journal General Hospital Psychiatry, compiled data from more than 200,000 adults in 38 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Persons with a current or past diagnosis of depression were 60% more likely to be obese. Those with anxiety were 30% more likely to be obese. Life is stressful and it is important that we respond to stresses in constructive rather than destructive ways. The next time you feel anxious or depressed why not respond to it by being physically active, or whisper a quick prayer if you are unable to go in your “closet” to talk to the Prince of Peace. You may want to try a herbal tea like valerian, hops or catnip; each having mild sedative properties. And remember, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9)