Depression and Glycemic Control in the Primary Care Setting: An Overview for Primary Care Providers.

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus and depression are frequently comorbid health conditions. Outcomes are generally poorer when the two diseases states co-occur, including the risk of long-term complications, quality of life, mortality, and associated healthcare costs.

Objective: The purpose of this article is to review the relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus and depression, as well as to provide recommendations on the integration of their management in primary care.

Methods: Utilizing PubMed and CINAHL, a literature review was completed to identify research pertaining to comorbid depression and diabetes. Reference lists of identified articles were also explored for relevance.

Results: There is evidence demonstrating the relationship between diabetes and depression, and a myriad of screening tools and treatment options that can be implemented within the primary care setting.

Conclusions: Based on current evidence, it is recommended that mood symptoms should be addressed as part of standard diabetes care in the primary care setting, and patients diagnosed with depression should be screened for diabetes.

Implications for nursing: Addressing both depression and diabetes are within the primary care scope of practice. The call to primary care providers to holistically, collaboratively, and simultaneously improve the outcomes of these comorbid conditions is now.