There is a close mutual correlation between depression and diabetes. People with persistent depression have doubled risk of diabetes. Conversely, people with diabetes are three to four times more likely than non-diabetics to have depression. It does not matter whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes. These figures illustrate a relationship that cannot be attributed to chance. First of all, there is a difference between diabetes. Depression a psychological link. Anyone who has just received the diagnosis of "diabetes" is probably shocked at first. Finally, diabetes goes hand in hand with restrictions such as eating on a schedule, regular measuring and injections. In addition, there may be a fear of hypoglycemia or life-threatening late effects. Nowadays, the use of blood glucose meters largely eliminates this anxiety. Because the devices measure the sugar continuously and trigger an alarm if the measured value rises or falls too much. However, anyone who has to live with such anxiety for a long time easily slips into a persistent anxious depression. However, depressive disorders can develop not only in diabetes, but also in all chronic diseases such as rheumatism or asthma. These can be a reaction to the stresses. Limitations caused by the disease.
The biochemical connection
There is also a biochemical connection. People who suffer from diabetes often also have elevated levels of pro-inflammatory messenger substances known as cytokines in the blood. This is the case when a lot of abdominal fat has accumulated and the person in question does not exercise much. Now another piece of the puzzle has been added to the connection between diabetes and depression, because increased cytokine production can contribute to the development of depression. This research finding makes it particularly clear how important increased physical activity is for people with diabetes! Incidentally, around 50 percent of men with type 2 diabetes have a testosterone deficiency, which can also be the cause of depressive symptoms. As a man, you should also remember to have your testosterone level determined, as recommended by the medical guidelines for all men with diabetes. A deficiency can be good. Being treated effectively.
Depression also promotes diabetes
It has also been known for some years that depression can also promote diabetes. Here, too, there are some possible explanations. First of all, a depressed person may not be paying as much attention to themselves and their health. Part of the nature of depression is listlessness, and so a depressed person often lacks the drive to exercise or to eat healthfully or to exercise. Lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet, however, can lead straight into diabetes. Depression is also associated with hormonal changes in the body. For example, cortisol levels often increase in the blood of people with the disease. Cortisol is a hormone produced naturally in the body that is released more in stressful situations, thus activating the ability to react. Cortisol, however, also reduces the effect of insulin. As a result, the pancreas is stimulated to produce more and more insulin. In the long run, this can lead to an overload of the organ. Thus promoting the development of type 2 diabetes.
Consequences
What does this mean?? First of all, both people suffering from depression and diabetics should think about the other diagnosis and, if necessary, have it treated. Because those who are affected by both diseases also have a greatly reduced quality of life. Furthermore, additional depression can lead to the fact that the medical recommendations that are important for diabetes are followed less carefully by the affected person. And this in turn can cause the risk of secondary diseases to skyrocket.
Recognizing depression
Depression can manifest itself in very different ways. There are symptoms that can indicate depression. These include a sad mood, disturbances of the drive and decision-making ability, concentration disorders, feelings of guilt and inferiority, sleep disorders, anxiety and or manic phases. If you are experiencing such symptoms, it does not necessarily mean that you are suffering from depression. It is important, however, that you seek medical advice – preferably from your family doctor. Only a trained medical professional can rule out with certainty that your complaints are not due to other, physical causes. If depression is identified, the physician may offer effective therapy or refer you to an appropriate agency for treatment.