A happier, healthier you

TREATMENT WITH DIABETES AND DEPRESSION

At any given time, most people with diabetes do not have depression. But studies show that people with diabetes have a greater risk of depression than people without diabetes. There are no easy answers about why this is true.

The stress of daily diabetes management can build. You may feel alone or set apart from your friends and family because of all this extra work.

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If you face diabetes complications such as nerve damage, or if you are having trouble keeping your blood sugar levels where you'd like them to be, you may feel like you're losing control of your diabetes. Even tension between you and your doctor may make you feel frustrated and sad.

Just like denial, depression can get you into a vicious cycle. It can block good diabetes self-care. If you are depressed and have no energy, chances are you will find such tasks as regular blood sugar testing too much. If you feel so anxious that you can't think straight, it will be hard to keep up with a good diet. You may not feel like eating at all. Of course this will affect your blood sugar levels.

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Noticing depression is the first step. Getting help is the second.

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If you are feeling symptoms of depression, don't keep them to yourself. First, talk them over with your doctor. There may be a physical cause for your depression.

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If you and your doctor rule out physical causes, consider a referral to Applecross Counselling.  We understand the complex interactions between chronic health conditions and mental health and well being.

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