Diabetes & Depression

Depression isn’t something that’s common to everyone who has diabetes.  It’s also, not something that’s only found in people who have diabetes. Anyone can suffer from depression, but when the two, diabetes and depression are combined?   The results can be devastating.  Depression and diabetes, as cohorts, can be a serious issue.

A diabetes diagnosis along can make a person become saddened, angered and experience many other negative emotions, which can lead to depression.  If a person suffers from depression  prior to diagnosis, diabetes can be a drastic blow that sends the person into a tailspin since coping with a diabetes diagnosis is not only a physical problem, but also a mental issue, with the person having to cope with all the changes that will occur in their life (eating, new medications, etc…)\

Diabetes is a strict taskmaster that doesn't always give rewards.   After you do everything "right" your blood sugars still might not be in a good range.   It's expected that a person will not be in "good moods" all the time and want to do everything that is good for the treatment of the disease.    But if you find yourself not taking your medication, eating excessively without thinking about the consequences, not eating for long period of times, or generally not taking care of  yourself, take some time and try to see if depression is causing you to do these things.

WHAT IS DEPRESSION

Depression isn't simply being sad.  Depression lasts longer than normal sadness.   Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and numbness often accompany the feelings.  Insomnia or physical pain might also be in the list of symptoms.  If these feelings last more than 2 weeks you might be experiencing serious depression.

When diabetes is present a simple question of, "Why me?", can turn into months and years of depression.    The depression may show up whenever a crisis arises (family problems, diabetes complications), or  when the discipline of diabetes management becomes too overwhelming.

FIGHTING DEPRESSION

It's important for you to try to fight the feelings associated with depression. The feelings can lead to negative actions and also inaction, neither of which is good. . It's not just something "light" or something "you'll get over".

Overall, you may find yourself having to function WITH the depression some days.  That means taking your insulin EVEN THOUGH you feel low.   It means exercising EVEN THOUGH you feel like crying.   It's not an easy task, but it has to be done if you want to keep your blood sugar levels in a good range.

GETTING PROFESSIONAL HELP

Talk to your doctor if you're experiencing depression.  There may be a physical cause which can be treated.  If a physical cause is ruled out you might want to see a mental health professional.  Talking with a psychologist or a psychiatrist might help you find out what's causing the depression.  These professionals might also be able to prescribe  anti-depressant medications that can help you function.

It's important not to sit and wait for things to change if the depression is making it difficult for you to complete your diabetes tasks and/or it's interfering in other aspects of your life.

SUPPORT GROUPS

You may be able to find support at home, with your family and friends, but often those sources can't or won't come through for you.  Joining a support group for diabetes and/or depression could be key to fighting both illnesses.  If you find it difficult to speak to someone about your diabetes and/or depression then finding a support group might be just what you need.  People who join a support group are looking for others, just like you, to share their experiences and coping techniques.

Being in a support group might encourage you to not only take better care of yourself, but it may also help you avoid reckless behavior.  Isolating yourself and hiding at home won't get you any of the help you need.  It's important to try to talk to people, even though you might "feel" that no one cares, or that you're the only one in this predicament.

ILLNESS

Diabetes is a challenging illness, but it can be dealt with in a positive and effective way.  Yes, there are some things about it that you might not like, but there is also a way for you to take care of yourself.  So, if depression is interfering with your diabetes management plan take some action and try to get the help you need...it's available.

Problems sleeping (sleeping more or less than usual)

Fatigue

Feeling worthless

Feeling guilty

Inability to concentrate

Problems with decision-making

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

If you need help finding a support group try calling your local hospital, your local chapter of the American Diabetes Association, or try looking online at diabetes websites.