Prevalence of depression and its effectiveness in controlling diabetic patients

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of depression among diabetic patients, assess its effects on diabetes management, and evaluate the effectiveness of integrated treatment approaches that address both conditions. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 452 diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia was conducted. Participants completed a structured questionnaire, which included demographic information, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 for depression assessment, and questions regarding diabetes management practices. HbA1c levels were obtained to evaluate glycemic control. Results: The study found that 55.4% of participants exhibited moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Participants with higher levels of depression reported significantly lower rates of blood sugar monitoring, medication adherence, and regular physical activity compared to their non-depressed counterparts (p value < 0.01). Additionally, the mean HbA1c level for participants with moderate to severe depression was significantly higher (7.5%) than for those without depression (6.0%) (p value < 0.01). Integrated treatment approaches resulted in improved HbA1c levels among participants receiving comprehensive care. Conclusion: The findings indicated a high prevalence of depression among diabetic patients and its negative impact on diabetes management and glycemic control. Integrated treatment strategies that address both diabetes and depression can enhance self-management behaviors and improve health outcomes. Routine screening for depression in diabetic patients is essential for optimizing care and reducing the risk of complications.