Chronic diabetes complications increase the risk of mental health issues and vice versa, according to a recent study from the University of Michigan.
The study led by Brian Callaghan and Eva L. Feldman says the relationship between diabetes complications and mental health disorders works both ways. The study found that chronic diabetes complications can lead to mental health conditions, and having a mental health disorder can increase the risk of diabetes complications.
INCREASED RISK FOR BOTH CONDITIONS
The research team, including experts from Michigan Medicine and the U-M School of Public Health, analyzed insurance claims data from over 500,000 individuals with diabetes and 350,000 without. Published in Diabetes Care, the study found that people with chronic diabetes complications had up to a threefold higher risk of mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Conversely, individuals with mental health disorders were up to 2.5 times more likely to experience sustained diabetes complications.
VARIATIONS BY TYPE AND AGE
The study also revealed differences based on age and type of diabetes. Adults under 60 with type 1 diabetes had a higher association with chronic complications, while those with type 2 diabetes were more likely to face mental health challenges. The bi-directional relationship could be due to direct effects, such as a stroke leading to depression, or indirect effects, like poor self-management due to mental health issues.
SHARED RISK FACTORS
Diabetes complications and mental health conditions share several risk factors, including obesity, poor glycemic control, and social determinants of health. Maya Watanabe, M.S., the study’s first author, suggests that addressing these shared risk factors could help prevent both conditions simultaneously.
NEED FOR INTEGRATED CARE
The findings highlight the importance of integrating mental health care into diabetes management. Currently, while some diabetes centres screen for depression and distress, a universal screening process for mental health in diabetes care is lacking.
ENHANCING CARE SYSTEMS
Eva Feldman, M.D., Ph.D., co-author of the study, emphasizes the need for enhanced care systems. These systems should include mental health screening, accessible insurance coverage for mental health services, and education programs for both physicians and patients.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS
As the study underscores the pressing need for comprehensive care, researchers and healthcare providers must work together to develop systems that address both diabetes and mental health conditions effectively.
The research provides compelling evidence that action is needed to address the dual challenges of diabetes complications and mental health disorders. Integrating mental health care into diabetes treatment could significantly improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.
