By Adam Garcia
We are going to discuss a topic on Diabetic Lifestyle today that is very close to me. It is about depression and diabetes of which I have a very intimate knowledge of. You see I am not only a Type 2 Diabetic, but I am also Bi-Polar.
Watch the video below for more about this:
dLife.com – Diabetes and Depresion
Depression can strike anyone, but people with diabetes are at a larger risk. In addition, individuals with depression may be at greater risk for developing diabetes. Treatment for depression helps people manage symptoms of both diseases, thus improving the quality of their lives.
There have been several studies that suggest that diabetes doubles the risk of depression compared to those without this chronic disease. The chances of becoming depressed increase as diabetes complications worsen. Research shows that depression leads to poorer physical and mental functioning, so a person is less likely to follow a required diet or medication therapy when they are depressed. Treating depression with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of these treatments can improve a patient’s well-being and ability to manage diabetes.
The causes of depression and diabetes are unclear. It is hypothesized that although depression may develop because of stress; it may also result from the metabolic effects of diabetes on the brain. Studies suggest that diabetic people who have a history of depression are more likely to develop complications of diabetes than those without depression.
Depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated. People with diabetes, including their families, friends, and even physicians, may not make a distinct connection between the symptoms of depression and diabetes. However, skilled health professionals will recognize these symptoms and inquire about their duration and severity, diagnose the disorder, and suggest appropriate treatment.
Here are some Depression facts:
- Depression can occur at any age.
- 6% of 9- to 17-year-olds in the U.S. and almost 10% percent of American adults, age 18 and older, experience some form of depression every year.
- Although available therapies alleviate symptoms in over 80 percent of those treated, less than half of people with depression get the help they need.
Depression results from abnormal functioning of the brain. An interaction between genetic tendency and life history appear to determine a person’s level of risk. Episodes of depression may then be triggered by stress, difficult life events, side effects of medications, or other environmental factors. Whatever its origins, depression can limit the energy needed to keep focused on treatment for other disorders, such as diabetes.
Symptoms of depression most commonly include:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
- Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
- Appetite and/or weight changes
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
- Restlessness, irritability
If you see these symptoms in yourself or others for a long period of time, seek out skilled health professionals for a proper evaluation. If you feel you cannot speak to anyone else about this or if you have other topics for Diabetic Lifestyle, please email us or leave a comment or question below.
