Lead author David Janicke of the University of Florida says tending to the needs of distressed parents can be one of the best ways to help children.

For example, having supportive parents is vital for children to be able to make the lifestyle changes needed to lose weight. Children often only have access to food at home and the behaviors a parent models affect the lifestyle choices a child makes, the researchers said.

When parents are struggling, they may have less energy and not be able to provide the emotional support an overweight child needs or help organize play dates and exercise activities, Janicke says.

The study, published in the journal Obesity, finds children whose parents are struggling or who reported more problems with peers tended to have a lower overall score for quality of life.