Happy New Year? Depression and Diabetes
After the excitement and “hustle and bustle” of the holiday season, it’s not unusual for many people to feel “down” or “blue.” Add to that the stress of caring for one’s diabetes, and it’s no surprise that many people with diabetes may feel unhappy, especially after the holidays. This in normal, but, if this feeling lasts for several weeks, you might be depressed.
A person who is depressed might not have the energy or motivation to perform the self-care tasks that are necessary to keep their diabetes in good control. It is important to recognize the symptoms of depression and talk to your physician if you feel this might be a problem for you.
Symptoms of depression include:
- Feeling sad, or crying easily
- Feeling hopeless
- Feeling guilty, helpless or worthless
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Loss of energy (simple tasks are an effort)
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
- Difficulty in falling asleep or sleeping too much
- Appetite or weight changes
- Restless, irritable or anxious feelings
- Thoughts of death, suicide
If you have five or more of these symptoms each day for at least two weeks, and they interfere with your daily activities, please see your physician.
A timely diagnosis of depression and treatment that consists of counseling, antidepressant medication or both can improve your diabetes control and allow you to have a better quality of life and a truly happy new year.
Knowing about the risk factors and symptoms of type 2 diabetes is important. Take an online risk assessment test NOW to find out your risk. Send your family, friends, and co-workers here to get an assessment. Who knows, one of them could have diabetes and not even know. But remember, this test is NOT diagnostic and is only a measure of relative risk. Only your doctor can diagnose you with diabetes.
Planning a family reunion, church or social gathering in the Greater Cleveland area soon? CLICK HERE to find out how you can receive free diabetes information to pass out to those attending.
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