Diabetes and Depression Linked

Although the days are getting longer, post-holiday blues and a lack of sunlight raise the risk of depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Studies show that people with diabetes are at a higher risk for depression than those without, and the effects of depression on diabetes control can be serious.

Causes

Depression can have many causes; chemical imbalances, major life changes, and genetics, can all play a role. While everyone feels down at some point — for example, after an unpleasant event or during a particularly stressful time in life — if the feelings of depression last longer than two weeks there could be cause for concern, especially for someone who is already dealing with a health issue like diabetes control.

The combination of diabetes and depression can become a vicious cycle that is difficult to break free from. Changes in blood sugar levels can influence mood, leading to depressive states.  People who are feeling depressed are less likely to maintain the necessary healthy lifestyle habits, and less likely to take their diabetes medication.

Poor eating habits and poor self-care, often associated with depression, will negatively affect overall health even more in someone with diabetes than someone without.  This is especially true of someone with insulin dependent diabetes.

The day-to-day struggles of managing diabetes can be discouraging as well, especially for those having to take daily insulin injections, and may lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and ultimately depression. In turn, depression is related to elevated levels of cortisol and other stress hormones, which can cause diabetes risk factors such as insulin resistance, abdominal fat and impaired glucose control.

Treatment

The good news is that there are many options available to help people with diabetes, and with depression. Diabetes support groups can be a good way to make connections with people who understand the challenges of diabetes, and may be helpful in alleviating some of the feelings of hopelessness and isolation associated with depression.

While some antidepressants can have a negative effect on diabetes control, there are many that can provide the help without causing problems. Talk to your doctor to find the best combination of antidepressant and diabetes medication for you.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression:

• feeling worthless, helpless or hopeless,
• sleeping more or less than usual,
• eating more or less than usual,
• having difficulty concentrating or making decisions,
• loss of interest in taking part in activities,
• decreased sex drive,
• avoiding other people,
• overwhelming feelings of sadness or grief,
• feeling unreasonably guilty,
• loss of energy, feeling very tired,
• thoughts of death or suicide.

If you or someone you love are experiencing these symptoms, please talk to a doctor or other health care professional, regardless of whether you have diabetes. Depression is a serious illness, but it is very treatable.