Diabetes and Depression

Summary

This video explains that people with diabetes have an increased risk of depression and discusses living with both diabetes and depression. Recognizing symptoms, getting help, and various approaches to managing depression are included. The program utilizes information provided by real people with diabetes as well as various questions they can ask themselves to help recognize if depression is present.

Details

Connection between diabetes and depression:

• depression is common among people with diabetes
• two to four times more likely to suffer from depression than people in the general population
• if you are depressed, it can interfere with your diabetes treatment plan

Understanding what may cause depression can help you know if you’re at risk.

If you are depressed, it may not be immediately apparent to you.

Review of the symptoms of depression: (Self test)

• overwhelming feelings of sadness
• lack of interest in many, or even all, of the things you used to care about and enjoy
• trouble concentrating?
• more irritable than you used to be
• sleep too much or too little
• change in appetite
• change in weight (without trying)
• tired a lot even though you haven’t been very active
• feel guilty about things you shouldn’t be feeling bad about
• feelings of worthlessness
• think it might be a relief to end it all

It is normal to experience some of these symptoms once in a while. However, if these symptoms occur often, and for extended periods of time, you may be depressed.

It’s very important that you share your feelings with your diabetes care team.

There are several ways to treat depression:

• counseling (in particular, cognitive-behavioral therapy)
• medication
• combination of medication and counseling

Staying active is especially important. Try stress reduction techniques, like meditation and yoga.

Avoid alcohol.

Don’t try to deal with your problems all by yourself. Seek help.