We can all get down in the dumps sometimes, but when feelings of sadness are persistent and get in the way of living life, that’s depression, a serious mood disorder. Depression is an illness that anyone can develop, and it is treated with medication and therapy. Apart from the general mental and physical toll depression can take, people with type 1 diabetes have additional concerns that may make them more at risk of depression.
Overall, the symptoms of depression involve changes in weight (eating too much or too little), feeling blue, sleeping too much or too little, and not finding enjoyment in life or activities. These are fairly nonspecific. However, if your mood is interfering with your ability to take care of yourself or function day to day, you need to ask for help.
Depression can look different in a teenager. Teenagers who are depressed can have declining school performance, withdrawal from friends and activities, anger, agitation, and/or irritability.
Depression can be related to age and life events such as loss of a job or a loved one. A family history of depression increases the risk, as does having low self-esteem and lack of social support.