Diabetes link to depression

Research appears to suggest that there are two links established between diabetes and depression:
  • diabetes as the potential cause for depression because of unbalanced hormones (1)
  • depression as cause or worsening of diabetes because of cortisol (1)

Sounds like an awful downward spiral.


However, according to the American Diabetes Association, while daily stress of diabetes can cause frustration and depression, there are diabetes symptoms that may only appear to be those of depression (2). It would be important to distinguish which is what before treatment. Examples of possible symptoms mistaken to be a signs of depression are feelings of anxiety or lack of energy since these symptoms can easily be caused by high or low blood sugar (2).

Reference List

1. "Depression and Diabetes." Blue Cross and Blue Shield. http://www.ahealthyme.com/topic/depdiabetes."

2. American Diabetes Association. "Depression." Available at: http://www.diabetes.org/type-2-diabetes/depression.jsp

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