In studies conducted at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the Medical University of South Carolina and reported in the journal Diabetes Care, researchers found a strong relationship between depression and diabetes: Depression increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.
Older adults with serious symptoms of depression have more than a 60 percent increased chance of developing type 2 diabetes.
Depressive Symptoms
Several symptoms of depression were predictive in the onset of type 2 diabetes, including:
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of sexual desire
- Increased irritability
The more symptoms, the higher the risk of developing diabetes.
The link between depression and diabetes is not completely understood, but the researchers believe it could relate to one or more of several possible factors:
- Depressed individuals may be less likely to manage diet and weight recommendations. (Obesity is a major risk factor in type 2 diabetes.)
- Depressed individuals may be less likely to exercise regularly.
- Depression may cause hormonal irregularities or changes that can effect insulin and blood sugar.
- Antidepressant medications may cause weight gain.
- Low socioeconomic status may make healthy lifestyle choices more difficult.
Depression and Diabetes
Those with both depression and diabetes had higher risk for functional disability than those with either depression or diabetes. This makes the early treatment of depression even more important than previously believed.
The Bottom Line
Taking care of mental health is just as important as taking care of physical health. If you or someone you care about shows signs of depression, make sure help is available. Depression can usually be managed with counseling and/or medication. Early treatment for depression can help avoid the later onset of diabetes. |
