We are highlighting the importance of psychological support for people with diabetes in Wales ahead of thisWorld Health Day(7 April 2017) which focuses on depression.
Depression is twice as common in people with diabetes, yet fewer than one in four people with diabetes have access to appropriate emotional and psychological support.
Depression may be triggered by the impact of being newly diagnosed, the daily responsibility of managing the condition and/or the fear of complications caused by diabetes such as blindness and amputation.
In addition, people with diabetes may also experience anxiety and eating disorders including diabulimia.Also, they may have depressive episodes for longer periods which may recur more frequently than for people without the condition.
Diabetes UK Cymru’s Director Dai Williams said: “If you are feeling down about living with diabetes, ask your healthcare professional to talk you through our new ‘mood information prescription’ and make sure you’re getting all the help and support you need. A balanced diet and being active is important for good mental health as well as taking any prescribed medications.
“The best psychological support is vital for people living with diabetes. Managing diabetes well minimises your risk of developing serious, life-limiting complications. Yet mental health is often overlooked in diabetes care. Being able to get emotional support is one of Diabetes UK’s15 Healthcare Essentials– yearly health checks which every person with diabetes should receive.”
