Depression is a serious illness that afflicts about 16 million Americans. Recent studies suggest that persons afflicted with this life altering disorder may be at a much higher risk for developing diabetes. In fact ,there are studies that suggest that diabetes doubles the risk of developing depression. This may due to the stress associated with chronic illness, but may also result from the metabolic effects diabetes has on the brain. In addition, it has also been found that people with depression and diabetes are more likely to develop diabetic complications and therefore have higher primary health care costs.

Since many of the symptoms of diabetes and depression tend to overlap, such as weakness, tiredness, weight loss, pain, and extreme hunger, it may be that depression goes undiagnosed in diabetes patients. A skilled diagnostician however, will be able to recognize it and suggest proper treatment.

The good news is that treating depression with modalities, such as exercise, alternative medicine, medication, psychotherapy, or a combo of all of the above can improve a persons ability to live with and manage their diabetes.

Be well~.