Dealing with Diabetes Depression

If you have diabetes, you have an increased risk of developing depression. The good news is that diabetes and depression can both be treated. 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.

If you are having a hard time dealing with diabetes complications or keeping your blood sugar levels where you’d like, you may feel like you’re losing control of your diabetes. All of these factors can make you feel frustrated or sad.

Depression can lead to a cycle of poor self-care, negative relationships, unhealthy eating, decreased energy, smoking and more. All of these things can make your diabetes worse.

How do I know if I'm depressed?

If you have diabetes, watch for signs and symptoms of depression, such as:

• Loss of interest. You no longer take pleasure in activities you used to enjoy.
• Change in sleep patterns. You have trouble falling asleep, you wake up during the night or you want to sleep more than usual.
• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness. You worry that you are a burden to others and feel “empty” inside.
• Change in appetite. You eat more or less than you used to.
• Loss of energy. You feel tired all of the time, even with a proper night’s rest. 

If you think you might be depressed, find help right away. Your doctor or diabetes educator can refer you to a mental health professional.