Depression and diabetes
There may be strong links between depression and diabetes and it is important to seek medical health if you are feeling that you may have depression. One in five people suffer depression and there is no need to feel embarrassed about getting help quickly.
These are some of the symptoms:
Behavioural changes: stopping going out, withdrawing from friends and family, relying on sedatives, unable to concentrate, not getting anything done.
Thoughts: feeling like a failure, feeling worthless, feeling life is not worth it.
Feelings: overwhelmed, guilty, frustrated, unhappy, sad and tearful, irritable.
Physical changes: tired all the time, sick, run down, not sleeping properly, not eating, weight loss, headache and pain.
If you feel you may have depression we urge you to consult your doctor immediately. Depression can be treated and there are various methods that will work differently for each person.
How can you help yourself?
We know it can be very hard to get motivated when you're depressed but these things may help (after you've seen your medical professional also):
- exercise
- learning about depression
- getting involved in activities you love
- keeping clear of alcohol and sedatives
- eating healthy foods
- asking for help
Getting help:
Lifeline - phone 131 114 or lifeline.org.au