Diabetes Blog

Diabetes linked to depression?

I’m a type II diabetic, and not even sure if that plays a role in how I feel, but lately I’ve had symptoms like depression but when I think about it I manage to tell myself I am happy, think positive, be grateful, etc. My issue is I hate having to leave my house. My friends will invite me places and the thought of getting ready, going out just is not inviting. I do my best to maintain my blood sugars but I’m on depo-provera and notice it’s got me hungrier then expected. Anyways, I’ve tried anti-depressants in the past but they just make me feel numb, no longer sad – just not happy nor sad. It’s hard to explain, has anyone ever gone through this before, is it depression or is there something actually wrong? lol When I do finally get out I am the life of the party and the one making everyone laugh. It’s odd for me. Been like this for about a year now. Thanks!

Cami, you are depressed but whether it could be related to your diabetes, or likely the depro, only your doctor can tell you. Not all antidepressants make you feel that numb feeling (yes I know that some do). For a lot of people they have to try several before they find one that works good for them without unwanted side effects. Bottom line, start with your doctor so you can rule out connection with your health problems and birth control.

Learning the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, is also known as manic depression, and is a serious type of mental illness. It differs from typical cases of clinical depression in that it is characterized by extreme mood swings, known as mania and depression.

During the manic phase, a person might feel excessively confident, irritable, upbeat, feelings of being indestructible, and energetic, lack concentration, and impulsive behavior. Remember, even though the person might seem extremely happy, they in all likelihood are not.

In the down phase, the person might feel hopeless, lethargic, and suicidal, have great difficulty sleeping, loose all interest in activities they used to enjoy, withdraw from family and friends, and experience changes in appetite.

These phases do not ordinarily cycle every day, but rather can go on for months at a time with just one of the major moods being present.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder commonly begin during adolescence or early adulthood though a proper diagnosis may not be obtained until the patient is older. It has been estimated that about 1 percent of the American population has bipolar disorder. Regrettably a large number of sufferers end up committing suicide when not given proper treatment.

Possible Causes

Although there is no official known cause for bipolar disorder, some genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors appear to play a part.

Genetics: Studies indicate that bipolar disorder can be more common in those whose family members also have it. The exact genes that could be involved are still being studied.

Biochemical processes: Brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters are related to mood and may also be involved. Hormonal imbalances are another possible variant.

Environmental: An example of environmental causes include issues with high stress levels, low self-esteem, lengthened illness, and emotional loss.

 Bipolar disorder can be a lifelong mental disorder that will need proper care for the sufferers entire life. Both mania and depression symptoms can occur together, and this state is referred to as a “mixed state.”

Mood swings occur in cycles and between the cycles, people appear to operate normally. A danger with people suffering from bipolar disorder is the possible use of drugs and/or alcohol, further aggravating the condition.

Mood swings do not always mean a person has bipolar disorder. Some of the following can impersonate symptoms: underactive or overactive thyroid, epilepsy, diabetes, sodium imbalance, and side effects from medications unrelated to mental health care.

When it’s time to seek professional assistance:

-When one experiences suicidal thoughts.

-When personality and mood swings get in the way of a person’s work, relationships, or health.

-When the person becomes a danger to others.

You will find treatment for your bipolar disorder by visiting our website.  You will also find many more “depression” related articles.

About the Author

Author Chris Tumie writes for our website at: http://www.help-with-depression.net
Where you will find more information about bipolar diagnosis.

Diabetes, Inflammation, Cancer, Joint, Depression, Relief and Support Part 2