Do you have diabetes?
Are you depressed? Ongoing
research suggests that people with either health condition are at higher risk of
developing the other.
Numerous studies have explored the link between diabetes and
depression but scientists are still unsure if diabetes causes depression or
depression causes diabetes. The latest research suggests the influence may go
both ways, although depression seems less likely to lead to diabetes.
Because caring for diabetes can be stressful and overwhelming,
it may lead to anxiety and depression.
On the other hand, if you are depressed, you may not be taking care of
yourself – not eating healthily and not exercising - which, ultimately, can
lead to diabetes.
According to Sara Foster, RN, MPH, “A recent review of 16
studies with nearly 500,000 participants found that people with type 2 diabetes
were more likely to have depression than those without the disease. Past
research reported a 24 percent higher risk for depression in people with type 2
diabetes. Those younger than 45 may be at particular risk for depression or
type 2 diabetes if they already have the other condition.”
Proper treatment for both can make a difference. A recent
study in the Annals of Family Medicine
found that, “by treating diabetes and depression at the same time patients
fared better. In fact, study participants who were given such integrated care
had better blood sugar control and fewer symptoms of depression.”
If you think that you may be depressed, try exercise.
Scientists have found that regular participation in aerobic
exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and
stabilize mood, improve sleep, and improve self-esteem. Even five minutes of
aerobic exercise can stimulate anti-anxiety effects.
To learn how Fitness for Health can help you
improve your mind-body connection utilizing state-of-the-art fitness
technology, visit www.FitnessForHealth.org
or call 301-231-7138.
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