Depression as a Comorbidity to Diabetes: Implications for Management

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.