Depression in diabetics in India escalating

A new study by the Delhi Diabetic Research Centre (DDRC) provides some answers to the lethal combination of depression and diabetes in India.

According to the study, the rate of depression in diabetics in India is as high as that found in their western counterparts. Nearly 15-18 percent diabetics suffer from depression in India.

"In western countries, too 15-20% diabetes patients suffer from depression. Sugar levels in diabetic patients who suffer from depression are very high. It could be due to stress,'' said Dr A K Jhingan, chairman, DDRC.

Details of the two year study
The study followed a total of 1,166 diabetic patients from across the country for two years. The subjects included 631 women and 535 men. They were all questioned about their lifestyle and underlying health conditions.

The researchers observed that depression was foremost in the 35-46 years category and the incidence was higher in women.

"Depression was noticed in 18 per cent females and 15 per cent males,” said Dr Jhingan.

Some underlying causes of depression in diabetics
Being diagnosed with diabetes is a major stress factor that results in physical and mental symptoms. Many newly diagnosed diabetics go through the typical stages of denial, anger, depression and acceptance.

Reflecting on the co-relation between diabetes and depression, Dr Jhingan stated that the vital link is obesity. Belly fat, a common characteristic of diabetic patients, is related to the stress hormone cortisol, which has also been linked with depression.
He stated, "Depression happens due to a hormone called cortisol, which is produced as a result of stress. High levels of cortisol are known to impair insulin sensitivity and contribute to fat distribution in the abdomen. And excess belly fat is a major risk factor for diabetes."

Dr Jhingan also felt that patients prone to depression are under anti-depressant medication, neglecting on essential diabetes medications, which contributes to worsening of the condition.

In addition, despair leads to lack of sleep, which triggers irritation.

A word of advise
Depression, though common, is a serious ailment which can disrupt daily life and normal functions of a person. Experts feel it is vital that proper measures be adopted to trounce depression in order to get a grip on diabetes.

Fortis Hospital's Clinical Psychologist and Hypnotherapist Dr Surbhee Soni stated, ''In people with diabetes, there is a need to treat depression as it helps people manage both diabetes and depression, thus improving quality of their lives. Constant support of family members, exercise, and physiotherapy can relieve depression with a positive effect on mood and glycemic control.''

The study was released at the launch of the DDRC website on Friday by Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.