As the holidays approach, and the season’s expectations and demands draw near, it is not uncommon for some, especially older adults, to catch a case of the “holiday blues.” But it’s important to know when it’s more than just the “blues” and how other conditions, like diabetes, can be linked with depression. November is National Diabetes Awareness month, an ideal opportunity to learn how diabetes and depression can go hand in hand. 

Diabetes remains prevalent among older adults. The American Diabetes Association reports that people with diabetes have a higher rate of depression than the general population.  People with diabetes may feel overwhelmed between controlling their sugar levels and trying to participate with family activities and feasts, which can make them feel burdensome.  Some family members may not fully understand diabetes and offer sufficient support or inclusion.  Additionally, older adults can also be more susceptible to depression because of increased loneliness associated with being socially isolated from others.

While depression affects everyone differently, recognizing its signs is a positive step toward managing your mental health right along with your physical health. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that some of the common symptoms of depression to look out for include:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, waking early in the morning, or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide

WellMed Disclaimer: If you or someone you know have thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 — or go to the closest emergency room. To reach a trained crisis counselor, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273- 8255). You may also chat at 988.lifeline.org. 

If you experience any of these symptoms for two weeks or more or if your symptoms are severe, be sure to seek medical attention. There are multiple options for the treatment of depression, but for all of them, the sooner help is sought, the more effective the treatment.

The holidays can be a stressful time. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of depression and talk to your doctor to find out more about the links between diabetes and depression so you can take the necessary steps toward healthy living. 

Contributed by Dr. Kevin Shih is a board-certified internal medicine and geriatric specialist with WellMed at Irving.  He received his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed his internal medicine residency at McGovern Medical School in Houston, and geriatric fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Dr. Shih is fluent in English and Chinese and is committed to providing compassionate, quality care to his patients.