Diabetes and depression: what you should know

Diabetes and depression are both serious diagnoses. But, when combined, they can be life-threatening—here's what you should know.

• People with both diabetes and depression are three times more likely to die from coronary artery disease than people with diabetes who are not depressed.
• Doctors distinguish between run-of-the-mill lows that come and go in response to events in your life and the clinging cloudiness of clinical depression, which can hang around for weeks or months without letting up.
• If you're clinically depressed, medications may help. You may be clinically depressed if five or more of the following are true for at least two weeks straight:

You may be clinically depressed if five or more of the following are true for at least two weeks straight:

• You feel sad, empty, anxious, or irritable just about all the time.
• You take little interest or pleasure in most, if not all, of your daily activities.
• You lack energy.
• Your normal appetite changes or you've lost or gained a significant amount of weight.
• You feel agitated or sluggish in your responses.
• You feel worthless or guilty.
• You have trouble sleeping—or you sleep more than usual.
• You have difficulty concentrating or making simple decisions.
• You often find yourself thinking about dying or suicide.

• Most cases of depression go undiagnosed, yet it is one of the most treatable mental health conditions.
• The keys to success? Patience and persistence. Just as it takes time to arrive at the right mix of medications and lifestyle adjustments to best manage your diabetes, it will take time for you and your doctor to find the right combination of treatments for your depression.
• Expect to feel like your old, depression-free self again, and be sure to tell your doctor if you don't. It's worth the effort—and the collaboration. Trying to work out depression on your own can be dangerous, and it's not necessary. Your doctor is here to help.
• Most likely, she or he will tap into a mix of remedies that include medicine and therapy. Your doctor may also suggest natural supplements and exercise.