Research has shown that stress may increase the risk of types 1 and 2 diabetes and also exacerbate the debilitating effects on a person with diabetes. Research has also shown that there is an increased risk of type 1 diabetes in children when they have experienced stressful events, including family and behavior problems during the first two years of their lives.
Types of Stress
Diabetes has been linked to a variety of stressful situations. These include work-related stress and emotional stress caused by sleeping problems, anger and hostility. Life events, such as the death of a loved one or trauma, can also increase the risk of diabetes. As early as 1675, Thomas Willis, an English physician postulated on the relationship between diabetes and people who had experienced significant life stresses and exhibited depression. Studies within the past decade have shown that depression is more common among diabetics than among the general population.
Relationship Between Stress and Diabetes
Diabetics suffer from abnormally high blood sugar levels from food sources. High-calorie meals increase blood sugar levels, but when people are experiencing emotional stress, they may eat more and the food they eat tends to be less healthy. They may be more prone to smoking. Exercise helps to lower blood sugar levels, but when people are experiencing emotional stress, their motivation to exercise may decrease.
Impact on Diabetics
Diabetics who are experiencing stress may have trouble managing their disease. They may be unable or unmotivated to carry out the self-care requirements such as taking their insulin and other medications or testing their blood glucose levels.
Suggestions
If you are predisposed to diabetes or are currently diabetic and are experiencing stress, it is important to try to remove or minimize the source of the stress. Self-help books can be helpful. If you can't remove or minimize the source of the stress, find ways to change your responses to stress. Learning relaxation techniques may help. Find ways to modify the longer-term effects of stress by finding distractions and engaging in pleasant activities. Consulting with a mental health professional can also be a viable option.
