Depression and General Health Status in Type II Diabetic Patients

Depression disorder is a common finding in patients suffering from chronic illness especially diabetic patients. Depressions might lead to the reduction of willingness, motivation and feeling strength in self-care. This study was conducted to determine the frequency and general health status of type II diabetic patients. In this cross- sectional study, 100 diabetic patients were selected from shahroud diabetic center in 2004; Beck,s depression inventory and general health questionnaire (GHQ) and checklists were utilized to collect the relevant data. The findings indicated some degree of depression in 78% of cases and in majority of them scores were between 10- 18 (mild depression). There was a significant association between age and severity of depression (P=0.01). Research findings revealed high prevalence of depressive symptoms among diabetic patients. Considering the conventional simple therapies for depression, proper screening among diabetic patient seems to be necessary. According to GHQ, 62% of diabetic patients have had psychological problems (scores>23).