The Link Between Diabetes and Depression


While most people are familiar with the signs and symptoms of diabetes, many do not know that people living with diabetes are at greater risk for developing depression. While it is normal to experience slight depression following your diagnosis or while learning how to manage diabetes, symptoms that persist for more than two weeks are an indication that you should seek medical help. Learning how to manage diabetes and your new lifestyle can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have a support system. Tension and stress can lead to feelings of hopelessness, frustration, and sadness. Depression is a negative side effect of diabetes. It can cause you to isolate yourself and withdraw from things you generally enjoy, like exercise. It is important to take control of the situation before it negatively impacts your lifestyle leading to complications of diabetes.

Many people who suffer from depression find participating in everyday tasks tedious and bothersome. This can cause serious problems for people who use diet, exercise, and glucose testing for diabetes control. In addition to sadness, depression can cause lack of appetite, lack of energy, and anxiety. Each of these symptoms are dangerous for all types of diabetes. It can be hard to spot depression on your own, but learning the symptoms will help you in identifying a problem. Changes in sleep patterns, insomnia, change in appetite, lack of energy, trouble concentrating, anxiety and nervousness, guilt, sadness, and suicidal thoughts are all indicators of depression. Poor control of diabetes can mimic depression symptoms. Low blood glucose levels can cause fatigue, anxiety, hunger, sleep issues, and increased urination. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider for an evaluation as soon as possible to get you back on the right track.

Filed under: Living with Diabetes

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!