Depression as a Comorbidity to Diabetes: Implications for Management
Abstract
Research has established a link between depression and diabetes, even though the underlying mechanisms in this relationship remain unclear. Primary care providers are often responsible for managing these conditions and are well positioned to provide integrated care improving patients' physical and mental health outcomes, yet they face a number of barriers contributing to the inadequate management of depression in primary care. All diabetic patients should be routinely screened for depression; management of these concomitant conditions should use a comprehensive approach that may include medication or referral for psychotherapy. This paper explores the relationship between depression and diabetes and implications for practice in the areas of screening, diagnosis, and management of depression in diabetic patients.
In compliance with national ethical guidelines, the authors report no relationships with business or industry that would pose a conflict of interest.
1Andrea A. Riley, MSN, MS, CNP, RD, is a family nurse practitioner at Hidalgo Medical Services in Lordsburg, NM.
2Mindy L. McEntee, MA, is a research assistant, in the Department of Health Systems and Outcomes at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Baltimore, MD.
3Linda D. Gerson, PhD, RN, PMHCNS-BC, is an assistant professor, in the Department of Health Systems and Outcomes at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Baltimore, MD.
4Cheryl R. Dennison, RN, ANP, PhD, FAHA is an associate professor in the Department of Health Systems and Outcomes at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Baltimore, MD.
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