The Link Between Diabetes and Depression

Diabetes and depression is one of those chicken and egg dilemmas: each illness may be both a consequence and a contributor to the other. While scientists haven’t figured out the exact mechanism of how the two diseases are linked, studies show that people with diabetes have a much higher risk of depression than people without diabetes. The good news is that both diseases can be treated together and effectively managing one can positively influence the other.

How Are Diabetes and Depression Related?

More than 10 percent of US adults have diabetes and about 6.7 percent of US adults have depression. More often than not, the two diseases occur together, but it appears the link between diabetes and depression can only partially be explained by increased body weight and lack of exercise. What researchers suspect is that there are two possible scenarios: depression may occur as a result of having diabetes or depression may be a risk factor for the onset of type 2 diabetes. In either case, the common denominator contributing to both diseases may be stress.

People who are depressed have elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol. When cortisol is high, it can lead to problems with glucose metabolism, increase insulin resistance and lead to the accumulation of belly fat; all risk factors for diabetes. People who are depressed also tend to have unhealthy lifestyle behaviors such as not exercising, eating a poor diet, smoking, and drinking, all of which can further contribute to the development of diabetes.

On the other hand, people with diabetes must deal with managing a chronic disease and making significant changes to diet and lifestyle as well as adjusting to medications. The long-term strain of diabetes management can be very stressful and lead to symptoms of depression.

Because so much of diabetes management involves self-care, when the two conditions co-exist it can be a recipe for disaster. Depression in a diabetic can affect blood sugar monitoring, dietary choices and the desire to exercise. Neglect of self-care can lead to complications and worsening of the disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

A feeling of helplessness is a common reason for depression and if you have diabetes it is easy to feel this way. Managing diabetes is complex, demanding, and even frustrating.

It is important to note that people with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms, and the severity and frequency varies depending on the individual. To spot depression it is important to understand the difference between clinical depression and feeling down or sad for a couple of days. A person would be diagnosed with depression if they had a depressed mood or loss of interest or joy in daily activities consistently for at least two weeks. If you have been feeling this way, check to see if you also have two or more of the following symptoms: a change in sleep patterns, a change in appetite, trouble concentrating, loss of energy, feelings of guilt, nervousness, or thoughts of suicide.

All too often depression goes undiagnosed and untreated. If you think you are depressed, don’t keep your symptoms to yourself. Continue to take your medication and speak to your doctor right of way. Your doctor will be able to do additional screening and work with you on a treatment plan.

Important Self-Care Behaviors

Poor control of diabetes can cause symptoms that look like depression so there may be a physical cause. High or low blood sugar can make you tired, anxious, disturb your sleep and cause changes in appetite so it is important to prioritize diabetes self-management.

Two key self-care behaviors that will help you control your diabetes are healthy eating and being active. Eating healthy means that you should build your diet around whole unprocessed foods and limit refined carbohydrates and sugars. You want to include foods that provide all three nutrients: protein, carbohydrates, and good fats in reasonable amounts to help you maintain a healthy body weight. You don’t have to give up your favorite foods, but you should work on portion control and eat regular meals that are low in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.

Being active is also a key behavior for managing diabetes. Being active can help control blood glucose levels, improve cardiovascular health, and assist in weight loss or maintenance. Include both aerobic exercises like walking, cycling, swimming as well as strength training and flexibility exercises. And don’t forget stress management. Engaging in yoga or meditation can help you to remain calm and cope more readily with your disease.  

Where Can I Go For Help?

Remember, depression is a treatable condition and it can strike anyone, but people with diabetes are at a higher risk. Seeking professional treatment for depression will help you manage symptoms of both diseases and ultimately improve your quality of life. If you think you are depressed, call your doctor or visit a mental health specialist. A doctor can rule out physical possibilities by doing an exam and tests and make recommendations for treatment.