What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an illness that affects the way your body produces and uses insulin. 

The symptoms can be difficult to diagnose because they vary by person, but some general signs include excessive thirst (known as polydipsia), extreme hunger with stomach pain or nausea/vomiting when you eat food, and weight loss even while eating large amounts of carbohydrates such as fruit juices. 

There is currently no cure available for Type 1 Diabetes; however, research into a cure continues!

What Causes Depression in Someone with Type 1 Diabetes?

What Are the Signs of Depression in Someone with Type 1 Diabetes?

Below are signs of depression in adults with Type 1 Diabetes:

• Loss of interest in activities
• Irritability
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Changes in appetite
• A decline in work performance
• Lack of energy
• Trouble concentrating
• Suicidal thoughts

Children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes can also show the below signs of depression: 

• A decline in school performance
• Refusing to go to school
• Irritable or angry
• Avoiding activities with friends
• Changes in appetite
• Being very sensitive
• Being clingy

What Are Treatment Options for Someone With Type 1 Diabetes and Depression?

Medication

Counseling

People with Type 1 Diabetes and depression who are struggling emotionally can benefit from therapy treatments.

One such treatment that has been proven effective for those with Type 1 Diabetes and depression is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy also known as CBT.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps individuals with Type 1 Diabetes and depression identify their negative thoughts and replace them with more productive ones through goal-setting exercises, recovered memory techniques, or coping strategies.

It grooms' patients' minds by teaching mindfulness skills like deep breathing while also providing education on managing stress points along the way.

Support Groups

There are many people with diabetes who have depression, but often it's difficult to talk about. 

We understand that you might not feel comfortable discussing your mental health or the risk factors for developing this condition. 

Support groups provide an opportunity for like-minded individuals in recovery from type 1 diabetes-related illness and distress through honest conversations on anything related: relationship troubles, at any time during our lives' course; work issues such as stress at home when juggling career demands alongside family commitments, dealing w/the physical symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes and depression, etc. 

The goal of support groups isn't just relief; they want people struggling emotionally or mentally to be able to remain active participants in their communities as well as maintain healthy living habits so that future episodes can be avoided.

Conclusion

Depression is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. 

If you are struggling with depression and have type 1 diabetes, it is important to seek help from a professional. 

There are many treatment options available for those who suffer from both Type 1 Diabetes and depression. 

Leave a comment below if you would like to share your story or ask a question.

We would love to hear from you!

Resources 

https://www.psycom.net/depression-and-diabetes#:~:text=Treatment%20options%20for%20diabetes%20in%20addition%20to%20standard,changes%2C%20such%20as%20improving%20diet%20and%20exercising%20regularly.

https://www.diabetes.org/healthy-living/mental-health?&ada_source=WWP211001BW001M001CC&ada_sub_source=bing&autologin=true&s_src=AAP181101LXXXXM001CC%E2%80%9D&gclid=cb3d23c75f5f1cb8423841b990b21e08&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=cb3d23c75f5f1cb8423841b990b21e08&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Awareness_Generic_ADA_%20DiabetesMentalHealth_PH&utm_term=diabetes%20and%20depression&utm_content=Diabetes-Mental-Health

https://www.jdrf.org/t1d-resources/living-with-t1d/mental-health/depression/