Expert Intervention: Exploring the Link Between Diabetes and Psychological Well-being
Dr. Kelly Wood, an ABMS board-certified endocrinologist and internal medicine physician, specialises in treating adults with diabetes, thyroid disease, osteoporosis, and other hormonal conditions. After completing her fellowship in endocrinology at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, she now dedicates her practice to improving the lives of those living with diabetes.
Living with diabetes can have a profound impact on a person's mental health. Individuals with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of developing depression and anxiety compared to the general population. This is due, in part, to the chronic stress and psychosocial burdens associated with managing the condition.
The relationship between diabetes and mental health is bidirectional, meaning that individuals with depression are also at an increased risk of developing diabetes. Factors contributing to this link include chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and the psychological impact of living with diabetes.
Managing diabetes can lead to what is known as diabetes distress, characterised by feelings of overwhelm and frustration regarding diabetes care. Recognising these mental health challenges is crucial for effective management and support.
Over time, diabetes can change the brain's structure, leading to mood disturbances. Treating a mental health condition can help a person better manage their diabetes.
Chronic stress, hormonal imbalances, and increased inflammation in the body are associated with both diabetes and depression. Smoking, which is more common in people with mental health conditions, also increases the risk of diabetes complications such as stroke and heart disease.
People with depression are more likely to be sedentary and have an unhealthy diet, which can lead to higher blood sugar levels. Conversely, poor sleep, lack of exercise, and an unhealthy diet are common causes of both diabetes and depression.
Long-term use of antidepressants can increase the risk of developing diabetes. On the other hand, many drugs for the treatment of depression and anxiety can make it harder for people to manage their blood sugar.
Women with type 1 diabetes may be at risk of developing eating disorders such as diabulimia. If a person believes they have depression or anxiety, they should reach out to their doctor right away.
It's important to note that high and low blood sugar levels can affect how the brain functions in terms of mood and thinking ability. People with diabetes are more likely to develop depression than those without the condition, and they are also more likely to have anxiety at some point in their lives.
Black and Hispanic people in the U.S. may often be uninsured or underinsured, which can increase the risk of developing complications of type 2 diabetes and are more likely to have advanced disease at diagnosis, which can increase the risk of depression.
Anxiety has similar symptoms to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), so it's essential to monitor both conditions closely. If a doctor suspects a person may have depression or anxiety, they may refer them to a mental health professional who may recommend therapy and medications.
In some cases, a doctor may recommend stopping or reducing these medications if a person's blood sugar levels become too high. By understanding the link between diabetes and mental health, we can work towards providing comprehensive care and support for those living with diabetes.
- Diabetes, a chronic condition, can lead to an increased risk of depression and anxiety, due in part to the psychosocial burdens and chronic stress associated with managing it.
- The relationship between mental health and diabetes is bidirectional, with individuals suffering from depression also at an increased risk of developing diabetes.
- In certain cases, long-term use of antidepressants can increase the risk of developing diabetes, while many drugs for treating depression and anxiety can make diabetes management more challenging.
- It's crucial to recognize the mental health challenges associated with diabetes, such as diabetes distress, which is characterized by feelings of overwhelm and frustration regarding diabetes care. This recognition will help in providing comprehensive care for Hispanic individuals, who may be more at risk due to limited access to healthcare services, as shown in the multi-ethnic American population.
