Did you know that people with diabetes are two times more likely to develop depression? Those who have struggled with depression before diagnosis are also at risk of relapse too.
Why?
A chronic disease like diabetes can be hard to accept. There is also the risk of burnout from managing your symptoms and medications. You can even slide into depression when your blood sugar levels are uncontrolled, due to the effects this has on your body and your moods. Research has also indicated that diabetes may have an impact on the brain’s chemistry leading to depression.
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A Cycle of Sugar & Sadness
So, there are many potential causes of this mental health condition. Having both can lead to an unpleasant cycle that can affect your health.
Diabetics may start with uncontrolled blood sugar levels, a diet high in processed foods, and sedentary lifestyle. This causes apathy to creep in, bringing with it indecision, tiredness, and mood swings. In turn, these difficulties only make those affected want to comfort themselves with food and distractions.
Over time, this cycle causes diabetes complications to develop from chronically elevated blood sugars and inactivity.
Breaking the Cycle
If you are having difficulty with managing your diabetes and feel the following symptoms of depression, make an appointment with your doctor. They may be able to simplify your treatment regimen, set you up with other treatments to help you get back on track again.
- Insomnia
- Apathy and Lethargy
- No longer enjoying life activities
- Poor concentration
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Feeling isolated
- Insecurity
- Self-harming
- Suicidal Thoughts
There are many ways to treat depression. It will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your doctor. However, it will likely involve a combination of lifestyle changes, counseling, and medications.
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[expand title=”References“]
Diabetes and Depression. URL Link. Accessed September 12th, 2017.
Is There a Link Between Diabetes and Depression? Know the Facts. URL Link. Accessed September 12th, 2017.
What’s the connection between diabetes and depression? How can I cope if I have both? URL Link. Accessed September 12th, 2017.
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