Diary of a Diabetic's Wife: Diabetes and Depression

This is  one of several entries by Chris Pyne.  Click on the Diabetic's Wife tab to read all of her posts. Please visit her support group at Diabetes Support Group for Spouses for ongoing dialogue and support.
 

Depression in diabetics is very common. Who wouldn't be depressed when you have to give yourself multiple shots a day, having to check your blood sugar over and over, having to deal with the highs and lows of your blood sugars, and counting carbs every time you put something in your mouth?  People don't realize the amount of time and effort that goes into this disease unless you're either a diabetic, or someone who is in close contact with a diabetic. Like I've said before, diabetes controls your life.

Throughout our married life Roger has experienced many bouts of depression. Many tears have been shed by him and by me. (Depression in me is another diabetic story). The daily stress of managing your diabetes, the resentment and asking yourself , “why did this happen to me?”, and feeling set apart from your friends and family are just precursors for depression.

If you face diabetes, complications such as nerve damage, eye problems, kidney problems, or have trouble keeping your blood sugars in normal range and feeling like you're losing control brings on the frustration of the disease and depression.
Just like denial, depression can get you into a vicious cycle. It gives you the sense of not wanting to take care of yourself. You have times when you just don't care anymore. But then realize how important it is to stay on top of it because of all the repercussions.

Not all people with diabetes have depression but a large percentage do. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of. I'd certainly be depressed if I had the disease. I look at Roger and see everything he is doing to help himself. He takes his medication, exercises 5 days a week and I do my part by providing him good, healthy meals. He will always be my hero.