Diabetes and mental health problems share two-way relationships, with each condition influencing the other in distinct ways. Several aspects of daily life are impacted by mental health, including how you handle stress, think and feel, interact with others, and make decisions. Therefore, mental health issues might make it difficult to maintain your diabetes treatment plan. Untreated mental health conditions can worsen diabetes, and diabetes complications can exacerbate mental health conditions. Fortunately, if one gets well, the other usually gets well.
In an interaction with Only My Health, Dr Vijayalakshmi, Diabetologist, Mallige Hospital, Bangalore, explains about the link between diabetes and depression.
Depression And Diabetes
Depression is a medical condition that causes sadness and a loss of interest in activities that you used to enjoy. It may interfere with your ability to manage your diabetes. Your risk of developing diabetes complications like heart disease and nerve damage increases when you are unable to manage your blood sugar levels effectively.
The World Health Organisation considers depression as one of the main factors contributing to health decline and the progression of disability. It has been linked to a higher risk of diabetic complications and higher use of medical services among diabetic patients.
Stress, Anxiety, and Diabetes
Traffic delays, family responsibilities, and daily diabetes care are all sources of stress. You can feel stress as an emotion, such as fear or anger; as a physical reaction, like sweating or increased heartbeat; or both. People under stress do not take good care of themselves. Stress hormones have an impact on blood sugar levels, causing blood sugar to fluctuate unpredictably. Long-term stress can lead to other health issues or exacerbate existing ones. Anxiety is the feeling of worry and fear.
According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, anxiety is 20% more common among people with diabetes than among non-diabetics. For some people, managing chronic diseases like diabetes is a big cause of anxiety.
Management of diabetes and mental health conditions
Counselling support
Emotional and psychological support should be included in diabetes management. It is absolutely fine to request it if you require assistance. While it's not for everyone, talking to a therapist or counsellor can be of great benefit.
Also read: Study: People Who Have Depression Less Likely To Have Children
Medicational support
Medications are prescribed to boost the release of chemicals in the brain and thereby improve the mood. There are various types of medications available for mental health conditions. Your doctor will prescribe the one that suits you the best. These drugs do not interfere with the action of your diabetes medications.
Talking to your friends and family
Speaking with those who know you well may be really beneficial at times. These discussions can be challenging, but putting together some advice to assist with diabetes and mental health is helpful.
Also read: 4 Ways To Diagnose Depression In Older Adults
Physical activity
Exercising is very important for managing diabetes. It has many positive benefits, such as controlling weight, lowering blood sugar levels, helping the body to use insulin more effectively, and helping to alter moods for the better.
Because of psychological issues and social problems, many people struggle to regulate their blood sugar levels. Managing symptoms of mental disorders can go a long way in helping you to control your diabetes.