Abstract :Abstract
Diabetes is a major global health concern. People with diabetes have worse mental health outcomes
than those without diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes ranges from 6% to 13% and is highest in
low-income countries. Between 2005 and 2015, the incidence of diabetes increased at an alarming
pace, from 333 million cases to 435 million cases, and more than 700 million adults are expected
to have diabetes by the year 2025. The global cost of diabetes in 2014 was estimated at $825 billion
annually. Given the increased incidence of diabetes and its associated cost, it is important to better
understand the disease as it relates to other conditions. Among persons with diabetes, mental health
problems are well documented, and depression is the most common problem. In fact, persons with
diabetes are twice as likely to experience depression compared to those without diabetes. A large
body of research finds the relationship between diabetes and depression is bidirectional, where
depression is associated with decreased metabolic control and diabetes may increase depressive
symptoms. Studies have also shown that depressive illness in those with diabetes is associated with
increased risk for medical complications, disability, and mortality [1-3].