It is no surprise that diabetes doubles the risk of depression. Between balancing our diets, timing our injection intakes, scheduling exercise, and managing the highs and lows of blood-sugar levels, things can get tough. This daily regimen is quite overwhelming and, if we are not careful, it can make us more susceptible to feeling low. Let’s take a closer look at how to manage this condition and examine how we can avoid the toxic coupling of diabetes and depression in the future.

Diabetes and Depression: Double strike!

diabetes and depression

Often, depression can be quite evident, and you are fully conscious of the fact that you are experiencing it. Sometimes, however, it can creep up on you, making you unaware that you are suffering from the blues. Last time I fell into a deep depression, I had no clue that I was feeling down until someone said the magic words: “Are you depressed?”

Here are some signs to watch out for, mainly if you are a diabetic patient:

Warning Signs

  1. Increased instances of missing medicine dosages.
  2. Refusal to measure blood sugar levels regularly.
  3. Guilt: Thoughts about self-blame and the “I can’t do anything right” feeling.
  4. Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest in usual activities.
  5. Trouble concentrating: In school or watching TV, your mind wanders and gets lost in random thoughts.

Any combination of these symptoms should prompt a visit to your doctor to determine your real health picture, both in a physical and mental sense.

diabetes and depression

Coping with Diabetes and Depression

Medication is a useful tool to fight against diabetes and depression, but there are other things we can do for ourselves that ensures these ailments are kicked to the curb.

Useful Tips

  1. Psychotherapy: This can do wonders for you. It improves your depression and motivates you to take care of your diabetes again.
  2. Regular exercise: This is a masterstroke since this will help regulate your blood sugars, as well as release the “good chemicals” in your brain to relieve the symptoms of depression.
  3. Collaborative care: This has shown excellent results in patients. Collaboration encourages a sense of accomplishment, team spirit, and better care. Several online resources are available to get in touch with other diabetes patients. I recommend WeAreMore, an app that works as a support network for peer to peer chronic care. You can think of it as an online diabetes support group.
  4.  A Balanced diet: A healthy diet will improve metabolism, help regulate blood sugars, and help you fight your depression.

Other Resources

Some useful links for further information:

  1. A background into the symptoms of diabetes and depression.
  2. A guide on how to cope with these two conditions.
  3. How to help someone with depression.

Final Thoughts

When battling diabetes and depression, you need help. Consult your doctor, follow their medical advice, and implement some of the tips mentioned above so that you can regain and maintain the healthy life that you deserve.