The Effects of a High Glucose Level on One's Emotional State

People with high glucose levels in the body are often diagnosed as diabetics. The economic and health issues associated with diabetes frequently lead to depression. Researchers are unsure which comes first, a diagnosis of depression or a diagnosis of diabetes. A diagnosis of diabetes leads to symptoms of stress that contribute to depression in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetic patients. A diagnosis of depression sometimes reveals previously unknown high glucose levels, and ultimately a diagnosis of diabetes. Either way, high glucose levels have a profound effect on the emotional state of diabetic patients.

• Depression risks double with a diagnosis of diabetes.

Effects

• According to Alan Jacobson M. D., Chief of Psychiatry at Joslin Diabetes Center, Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and senior author of the paper published in the August 2009 issue of Archives of General Psychiatry, a link was made between high glutamate levels in the brain and high glucose levels. Produced from glucose, this neurotransmitter can damage neurons, lead to higher glucose levels, cause depression and reduce cognitive function.

High Glucose Levels

• Blood sugar levels are controlled through proper diet and medication. Diabetics suffering from depression usually smoke, eat more and exercise less, causing glucose levels to rise. Diabetic patients with symptoms of depressions are less likely to adhere to insulin therapy. The stress of uncontrolled glucose levels coupled with the worry of diabetic complications frequently leads to depression.

Depression

• The mental function of patients with diabetes lessens as the disease progresses. The failure to maintain proper glucose levels leads to stress, and as stress levels increase symptoms of depression are seen. Feelings of sadness, hopelessness and worthlessness are some signs of depression. Decreased energy levels and insomnia can create problems with concentration and decision making. Patients showing suicidal tendencies should be monitored closely.

Cognitive Function

• Cognitive impairment is seen in diabetic patients with depressive symptoms and in depressed patients with high glucose levels. It is a vicious cycle and the inability to think and communicate clearly often alters your sense of reasoning, intuition, and perception. A decreased level of learning and a lessened ability to control emotions are also associated with high glucose levels.

Treatments

• Treating diabetes and depression together creates the most favorable outcome. By maintaining proper blood sugar levels and using antidepressant medications sometimes combined with psychotherapy, a middle ground can be achieved, allowing patients to live long healthy lives, free of diabetic complications.