Diabetes and depression

Managing diabetes can seem like an overwhelming task, particularly for the newly diagnosed patient. Many diabetics struggle to cope with the requirements of the disease and the complications that it causes.

As a result, many diabetics suffer from depression.

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder witnessed in the diabetic population.

I am worried that I might be getting depressed because of my diabetes, what would my symptoms be?

The symptoms of depression are numerous, and will be different in each individual case.

However, the following symptoms can be consistent with depression caused by diabetes.

• Persistent sadness or anxiety, a feeling of hollowness
• An overriding feeling of hopelessness and negativity
• Feeling helpless and powerless to change your situation
• Loss of interest in activities or pleasures
• Lower energy and increased fatigue
• Insomnia, oversleeping, awakening early in the morning
• Concentration problems, memory problems and indecisiveness
• Dwelling on death or suicide
• Restlessness
• Weight change and decreased or increased appetite

Each of these symptoms by themselves does not necessarily mean that depression is present. Also, if the feelings are inconsistent or only occurring rarely, this may be quite normal.

If you have these symptoms consistently, and they begin to interfere with the management of your diabetes, your relationships or your social work it could be sensible to seek an evaluation of depression.