Psychological Aspects Of Diabetes

The psychological aspects of diabetes have long been ignored. However, stress, anxiety and even depression are increasingly common conditions among patients suffering from this pathology.

For some years and thanks to a multidisciplinary approach, greater importance has been given to the psychological aspects of diabetes that influence the life of those affected.

The set of metabolic alterations that characterize diabetes mellitus completely alter the daily life of those suffering from this pathology. One fact that is often overlooked is the close relationship between type 1 and type 2 diabetes with mental disorders. It is estimated that about 50% of people with diabetes will have a psychological problem sooner or later. What’s more, the likelihood of suffering from depression doubles with diabetes.

The psychological aspects are always present and should not be underestimated or neglected. Ignoring the psychosocial context of people with diabetes means not guaranteeing them optimal care that takes into account their needs and those of their families.

The understanding, empathy and adequate preparation of professionals are part of the psychological intervention necessary to improve the quality of life of patients.

Psychological aspects of diabetes

Living with a chronic disease is not easy for anyone. Habits change, the way we relate to the surrounding environment and also the vision we have of ourselves. Diabetes mellitus is perhaps the most common condition, but at the same time the one that most alters the daily reality of those who suffer from it.

In general, type 1 diabetes appears in childhood, while type 2 diabetes (which is the most common form in the world and accounts for 90-95% of cases) occurs in adulthood and is associated largely due to poor eating habits and an incorrect lifestyle, where enough insulin is not produced for the body to use glucose as an energy source.

Beyond the causes that trigger the appearance of this metabolic disorder, other factors must be kept in mind. In fact, diabetes requires a holistic approach. Most doctors rightly focus on physical-biological alterations, such as vision and kidney problems, cardiovascular disorders, etc. All this is important, of course, but so is an area that is often put aside, psychological health.

A difficult pathology to manage for many patients

The psychological aspects of diabetes primarily highlight tension, fear and stress. It is a condition that is managed by the patient and not by the doctor. The diabetic person must exercise some self-control, monitor blood sugar and make important decisions. The sting is nothing compared to the management of the disease, a difficult matter for an adult, let alone a child.

The constant self-management of diabetes can cause patients to feel a certain sense of ineffectiveness. Emotional anxiety is often present, accompanied by eating problems and a kind of sense of abandonment at school or at work.

Diabetes and mental health

According to several clinical studies, the prevalence rate of depression is three times higher in patients with type 1 diabetes and twice as high in patients with type 2 diabetes than in the general population. As for anxiety disorders, the incidence is equally significant: diabetic subjects are about 40% likely to suffer from anxiety problems.

According to research data, in addition to the pressure of the disease, metabolic alterations also occur. Inflammatory responses associated with diabetes are related to the development of depression. For example, it has been shown that proinflammatory cytokines interact with many brain areas and with neurotransmitters involved in this disorder.

The need for a holistic approach to diabetes treatment

The psychological aspects of diabetes are present and very important. A person who is not psychologically well will not be able to manage his illness adequately. There is therefore a need to use a word that is now very fashionable, but which in fact guarantees a certain degree of effectiveness in the treatment of various diseases.

We are talking about a “holistic” approach, in terms of collaboration between doctors, psychologists, nutritionists and social workers for the well-being of the sick person. Diabetes does not necessarily have to limit the patient’s quality of life, not as long as resources and adequate preparation are available in the various areas involved.

Day after day progress is made and the results will be evident.