Treating Depression for Better Diabetes Management
Updated October 08, 2014.
Treating your depression can significantly improve your diabetes management. Many people with diabetes believe that depression is a necessary part of living with a chronic condition. But that is not the case. Research has shown that the best strategy for combating depression is a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Let’s consider the most important aspects of both approaches.
1. Antidepressant medications. First, discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to obtain a correct diagnosis. If your doctor finds sufficient evidence to suspect depression, he or she may prescribe one of several antidepressants that have been shown to combat depression.
There are times when an antidepressant medication may not be necessary. The depressive symptoms may be due to a physical problem or an interaction with other medications you are taking. That is why you must always get a professional opinion before requesting medication.
2. Psychotherapy. There are many approaches to psychotherapy. One approach that has been shown to be effective is called cognitive-behavioral therapy. This type of therapy examines your thoughts, feelings and actions and how they may be contributing to your depression. For example, if you feel diabetes has control over you, you might unconsciously believe that there is little use in trying to manage your diabetes. Therefore you become lax in checking your blood, watching your food intake and getting adequate exercise.
Therapy with a mental health professional familiar with diabetes is also beneficial. He or she may be able to help you explore new ways of coping with diabetes management burnout, family issues and the challenges of living with diabetes complications.
The combination of anti-depressant medication and psychotherapy can be a powerful one to help raise your mood while also weeding out unhelpful thoughts and feelings that may keep you from being proactive with you diabetes management.
Sources:
Depression. American Diabetes Association. Accessed August 5, 2009. http://www.diabetes.org/type-2-diabetes/depression.jsp
Polonsky, William H. Diabetes Burnout: What to Do When You Can’t Take It Anymore. Alexandria: American Diabetes Association. 1999.