People with diabetes are about twice as likely to suffer from depression as people without this metabolic disorder. The simultaneous occurrence of both diseases reduces the quality of life, worsens the course of diabetes and increases costs in the health care system. On the occasion of World Diabetes Day on 14 November, experts from the German Diabetes Center presented in a paper on how high the risk of joint occurrence is, which measures help with depression and why mental health should become an integral part of diabetes therapy.

Diabetes and depression influence each other, with mental health being crucial for successful therapy. Around 20 percent of diabetes patients suffer from depression, compared to 10 percent in the general population. The risk of depression increases by 10 to 60 percent with diabetes, depending on the study, and conversely, depression increases the likelihood of developing diabetes. In a German study, 15 percent of diabetes patients developed depression after ten years, compared to 12 percent without diabetes – an increase of one quarter. Possible causes include medications for depression, unhealthy lifestyles, chronic stress from diabetes complications and biological factors such as inflammation or insulin resistance in the brain.

If they occur together, blood sugar levels deteriorate and complications accumulate. The annual cost of treatment is about 5600 euros per person, compared to 3200 euros for diabetes without depression, mainly due to more hospitalizations. Those affected also have more sick days.

Diabetes requires constant attention, as sufferers have to monitor blood sugar daily, adjust diet and exercise, and deal with fear of complications. Studies show that thoughts of the condition occur every twelve minutes, leading to emotional exhaustion – a precursor to depression. Psychological stress reduces motivation for exercise, regular nutrition and adherence to therapy, which impairs blood sugar and prognosis.

Experts are calling for increased prevention and early detection by family doctors and diabetologists by means of screening questionnaires or open discussions. Early support via training, digital offers or psychosomatic counseling can prevent depression. Those affected are advised to talk to doctors at an early stage, to exchange ideas or to use low-threshold help. Regular training, sufficient sleep, exercise and a balanced diet strengthen resilience.

Depression is often considered a taboo subject, as those affected fear stigmatization. There is a lack of specialized psychotherapists for diabetes patients, with waiting times of over a year. Experts plead for the integration of the topic into education and training in order to better understand and support those affected.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability. ected.