Depression is a common mental health disorder. Up to one in four females and one in six males will have depression at some time.

Depression is serious and can range in intensity from mild to severe. Anxiety disorders affect 9.7 per cent or 1.3 million adult Australians (12 per cent women and 7.1 per cent men) during a 12 month period according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. For people who live with diabetes these figures are even higher and understandably their levels of depression and anxiety will ebb and flow. Therefore, it is vital that they be supported and encouraged to actively engage in the decision making and management of their condition on an ongoing basis.

The treatment for depression, anxiety and diabetes involves a coordinated approach that combines psychological and medical care, monitors both diabetes management and the symptoms of depression and anxiety and includes individualised diabetes education and adequate community support.

How can I help myself?

Support – many people find it difficult to talk about their experience of depression and anxiety; however, unless those around you know what you are going through, it is difficult for them to be supportive. It may also take some time and a few disappointments to find out what works best for you. Support comes in two forms: practical and emotional.

• Practical: Are there ways of reducing stress by asking others or using services that take on tasks that will reduce your levels of anxiety?
• Emotional: Find someone to talk to. It may be a professional i.e. GP, psychologist, counsellor or a family member, friend, support group or online chat room.

Learn about anxiety and depression – understanding what is going on physically and psychologically when one experiences depression and anxiety is part of the recovery process. Using books, websites, courses and seminars to learn about depression and anxiety can aid recovery. Your local GP or community health centre is a good place to start.

Incorporate relaxation into your daily routine – using breathing and muscle relaxation techniques, yoga and meditation can assist in relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Medication – a GP or psychiatrist may provide medication to help relieve anxiety symptoms as a short-term measure.

Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy balanced diet – incorporating these measures is good for the body and mind and is highly effective in reducing stress levels. Speak to a dietitian for more information.

Join a support group – a support group can help you to share your experience and learn from others.

Do something you enjoy – at anxious moments, try to do something that normally gives you pleasure. It can help to have a list of things you enjoy readily available as a reminder at times of stress.

Where can I get help?

If you or someone you know needs help, talk to your doctor or other health professional about getting the right advice and support.

• Diabetes infoline: 1800 637 700 or email us
• Speak to your GP about rebates available through Medicare for mental health care services
• Online diabetes counselling
• beyondblue or phone 1300 22 4636
• The Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARCVic)’s OCD and Anxiety Helpline: 9830 0533 or 1300 269 438 or visit their website
• Lifeline’s Just Ask Information Line: 131 114, or visit their website
• Social workers at your local community health centre or hospital
• Relationships Australia: 1300 364 2777
• Australian Psychological Society referral service
• University department Psychology counselling clinics (low cost)
• Sane Australia: 1800 187 263