True or false: People who are depressed are just feeling sorry for themselves. FALSE
True or false: Your depression can be cured if you just cheer yourself up. FALSE
True or false: Depression is a natural part of getting older. FALSE
True or false: Depression and diabetes are a common combination. TRUE!
Although February is the shortest month of the year, sometimes it just feels like an endless stream of gray days. For many people, these gray days are accompanied by sad feelings which for some, will disappear with the arrival of spring. For others, however, depression may linger and affect their diabetes control - or their diabetes may affect their depression.
It seems like the ultimate catch-22: people with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to suffer from depression, and people who suffer from depression are twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes. It is common for people with diabetes to become overwhelmed with the worry of the cost of diabetes care, possible long-term complications, and the effects of the disease on their family and work life. Similarly, depression can hinder one’s ability to stay active and on top of their dietary needs, increasing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Depression is a serious medical condition that, like diabetes, can go on for years before it is diagnosed. Fortunately, it can be treated – through medication, therapy, or both. It can be tricky to recognize depression, either in yourself or in a loved one. But if symptoms continue for more than two weeks, it may be time to consult your health care provider. Symptoms of depression may include:
- Change in sleep patterns.
- Loss of interest in the activities you usually enjoy.
- Eating more or less, weight fluctuation.
- Tired throughout the day.
- Feelings of hopelessness or sadness, especially in the morning.
- Lack of concentration, trouble sitting still.
- Feelings of anxiety or nervousness.
- Lack of self-worth.
- Feelings of guilt.
If you or a loved one has diabetes, it is particularly valuable to recognize early symptoms of depression because depression can interfere with a person’s diabetes management routine. Is your sadness melting away with the snow? As the signs of spring start to appear, take a mental inventory of your feelings to see if you’re ready for spring. Taking action to get help when depression occurs will accelerate the recovery time to “your normal self.”
