Researchers don’t have a complete picture just yet. But studies have identified some important
pieces to the puzzle.
One of those is chemistry. Changes in the brain related to diabetes — such as damage to
nerves or blood vessels — may contribute to the onset of depression.3
Then, there are the everyday challenges of managing diabetes. Checking your blood sugar. Taking medications. Watching what you eat. Staying active. Maintaining a healthy weight. It can simply feel overwhelming at times. And stress can lead to symptoms of depression.
On the other side of things, depression can make it harder to manage diabetes: physically, mentally, and emotionally. Common symptoms of depression such as insomnia, loss of appetite or lack of energy can lead to poor lifestyle decisions.
Stress, unhealthy eating, not getting enough exercise, smoking and weight gain are all risk factors for diabetes.