Diabetes Depression Therapy

The University of Auckland has launched a study that focuses on an innovative approach related to a treatment for diabetes patients with depression, which has been listed as being very effective. Those suffering from diabetes and depression at North Shore Hospital have been invited to take part in its initial trial, which aims to improve the quality of life for people with diabetes. The treatment will aids them in managing their depression and having a higher level of control as regards to their diabetic condition.

Statistics indicate that about a quarter of people with diabetes suffer from depression and that it not only has an impact on their mood; it also becomes between them and how well they manage their condition of diabetes.

The research that the study incorporates, which began since end of last year, looks at the benefits of ‘problem solving therapy’. ‘Problem solving therapy’ is defined as a structured means of helping a person to identify problems and then to provide solutions along with goal settings. Conventional ‘Problem solving therapy’ contains aspects of ‘talking treatment’, components of which belong to several programs to do with chronic disease management. But this particular therapy has been specifically adapted for people suffering from the both diabetes and depression.

Those who participate in the study may benefit from up to eight direct sessions which are spread over a period of two months, each of which to last an hour, and including GP liaison and further education.

Dr. Hatcher, Senior lecturer in Psychiatry at the University of Auckland, points out that the application of such therapy in addition to the various treatment methods valid in a context of research, will yield results showing how effective the therapy is with regard to enhancing mood and enhancing the control one has with his or her diabetic condition.

The therapy starts with those in attendance at the hospital clinic being given a questionnaire which serves to rate their levels of depression and anxiety. When the questionnaire has been completed, on the basis of score attained, one may then move on to the next stage: where they would be making a decision; they can either consent to receiving this new therapy or proceed with the kind of therapy that they would normally be granted by their GP given such a circumstance.

All who participate in the study benefit from the reception of self help information pertaining to how to deal with depression as well as diabetes; and a person's GP remains updated about their symptom findings. Dr. Hatcher hopes the result from the study will benefits diabetes patients quality of life as well as control over the disease.