How to Treat Diabetic Depression

Depression and diabetes generally go hand in hand and often make each other's symptoms worse. A study performed by Kaiser Permanente showed that most diabetics were likely to have had symptoms of and treatment for depression in the six months prior to their diagnosis of diabetes. The greater risk of depression in diabetics has to do with stress and feelings of loneliness that come with treating an all-consuming disease. By not treating the depression that comes with diabetes, you increase your risks of cardiovascular disease, blindness, neuropathy and other risks. But good news comes in a study performed at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, which found that treating your depression can improve your chances of living a longer life.

Things You'll Need

• Blood glucose meter
• A doctor/psychiatrist

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Instructions

• 1

  Consult a doctor. She can help you determine whether the depression stems from physical or mental issues. She will evaluate the symptoms to figure out whether the effects of high or low glucose levels are causing changes in appetite and fatigue--common symptoms associated with depression.

• 2

  See a psychiatrist or psychologist if your depression results from a mental issue. The clinician can provide you with psychotherapy and prescribe antidepressants if necessary. In studies performed by Dr. Patrick Lustman, antidepressants such as Prozac and notriptyline improved glucose levels and lifted the diabetics' depression.

• 3

  Monitor blood glucose levels more closely when experiencing stress. People's bodies respond differently to anxiety and stress. Your blood sugar levels might rise due to a chemical imbalance brought on by the depression.

• 4

  Eliminate stress and learn to relax. Avoid stressful activities and try relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation to keep yourself centered throughout the day. Also, exercise can strengthen your body and keep your stress levels down.

• 5

  Sleep better. Sleeping helps rejuvenate the body at night for the day ahead. Talk to your doctor if you do not feel you receive enough sleep at night.