Type 1 Diabetes and Depression

For some people, having type 1 diabetes may bring feelings of isolation, loss of control, and deep sadness.

Understanding the Link

Studies have shown that if you have diabetes, you are at increased risk of becoming depressed — in fact, you might have double the risk, according to one study. The exact reasons aren’t fully understood, but the stresses associated with having type 1 diabetes are thought to play a part.

Diabetes-associated stresses may include:

- Feelings of isolation, since only 5 to 10 percent of the diabetes community has type 1 diabetes (the majority have type 2)
- Feeling overwhelmed by the many things you have to do to manage your diabetes
- Worrying about diabetes-related complications such as nerve damage
- Loss of your sense of control when your blood sugar levels are out of control
- Tension between you and your doctor

Signs To Be Aware of

Your health care provider should be screening you for symptoms of depression on a regular basis. But you yourself should be looking for them as well.

Talk with your doctor if you are experiencing any of the following:

- Not wanting to do things that you used to enjoy
- Sleeping more or sleeping less
- Eating more or eating less
- Feeling down all of the time

The Need for Treatment

Getting treated for depression is important for anyone, but even more so if you have type 1 diabetes.

If depression  is not treated, it can impact your ability to take care of yourself and to control your blood sugar.

When you are depressed, it can be difficult to muster the energy and motivation it takes to manage your condition. You may not be testing your blood sugar levels enough, you may have a hard time adhering to your diet, and you may even skip meals, which can be dangerous.

If you are depressed, your doctor can prescribe treatments, such as antidepressant medications, that can help, or refer you to a mental health professional experienced in treating patients with depression. In some cases, lack of blood sugar control can cause symptoms of depression, so working with your medical team to get your levels under control may help.

In addition, lifestyle changes that can help lift your spirits include joining a support group of other people with type 1 diabetes, regularly exercising, practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, and getting involved with hobbies you enjoy. Positive steps such as these will help you start enjoying life again.

Source: everydayhealth.com

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Talk to other patients about how you feel in this thread: https://member.carenity.co.ukhttps://www.carenity.co.uk/forum/other-discussions/living-with-type-1-diabetes/diabetes-and-depression-578.

Don't hesitate to share your tips on coping with depression.