A Newer Perspective on Diabetes and Depression

Latest research seems to support those who have diabetes are at higher risk of developing depression, and vice-versa.

Science has always known the relationship between endocrinal or hormonal changes and the prevalence of depression. It has been observed that diabetes is no exception, and that person who has diabetes is also at the higher risk of developing depression. According to various studies, the risk of developing depression in diabetes could be almost three times higher as compared to the healthy population.

Chronic ailments including diabetes have become a pandemic of our times. Diabetes is a result of either insulin resistance, insulin deficit, or more commonly a combination of both. Dysfunctioning of insulin leads to higher blood glucose levels, which in return damages various organs. Diabetes is primarily a multi-organ and chronic illness, and each case of diabetes is different from the other. While some may develop kidney disease, others may complain of vision loss, or may even develop neuro-psychiatric symptoms like depression and anxiety. Diabetes can also be characterized by the prevalence of chronic inflammatory responses.

Diabetes and depression a bidirectional relationship

The relationship between diabetes and depression is multifaceted. Hence, it would not be possible to explain it based on one single reason or theory. All chronic illnesses lead to an elevated risk of mood disorders and depression; after all, it is not easy to cope with disease on a daily basis.

It has been demonstrated that depression is more common in diabetes (compared to the healthy population), and at the same time diabetes is also more common in those suffering from depression. In fact, even those suffering from mild depression are at a higher risk of developing diabetes, indicating a dual-sided relationship between diabetes and depression.
This comorbidity of diabetes and depression can lead to higher medical costs and low mortality rates. Depressed people also can develop microvascular and macrovascular complications more often. Therefore, identifying depression and treating it on time is vital to those who have diabetes.

Though some of the common underlying mechanisms have been found in both diabetes and depression, it is entirely possible that depression in diabetes differs. Hence, there is a need to understand depression further and investigate the subject to get answers for those who are suffering from both conditions.

Identifying causes of depression in diabetes

Research shows that some of the risk factors for developing depression or diabetes are common. Lack of exercise, unhealthy habits, and processed foods not only lead to diabetes, but they are also the reason behind lethargy, mood swings, and depression. Here we look at some of the most common explanations of association between these two conditions.