Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My 48-year-old mother has been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. She is taking medicines and managing her diet; however, I feel she has become quieter and sadder these days and does not show interest in things like before. I want to know the following:
Please suggest ways to cope with this.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Type 2 diabetes can indeed affect a person’s mental health. Research shows that diabetes can affect not only the body but also emotions, and what she is feeling is very real. Changes in blood sugar levels can directly influence mood. When her glucose levels fluctuate, she may feel irritable, unusually tired, anxious, or simply not like herself.
If her blood sugar becomes too high or too low, she can feel physically unwell, weak, shaky, or drained, and over time, repeatedly feeling this way can reduce her enthusiasm for activities she once enjoyed.
At the same time, managing diabetes every day can be emotionally exhausting. Constantly thinking about medications, food restrictions, blood sugar monitoring, and the fear of future complications can feel overwhelming. That ongoing pressure may lead to frustration, emotional burnout, or even symptoms of depression.
Supporting her with patience and gently encouraging her to speak with her doctor about both her blood sugar control and her mood can make a meaningful difference, because she does not have to handle this alone.
In her case, diabetes may also be changing how her body responds to stress. Persistently high blood sugar can raise stress hormones like cortisol, making her feel tense, emotionally exhausted, or easily overwhelmed.
It can also affect the brain’s reward system, so she may not feel the same joy or motivation she once did. She may want to enjoy things, but simply doesn’t feel that spark, and that is a biological effect, not a personal weakness.
To help her cope, encourage her to openly discuss her feelings. Sometimes, just being able to talk about what she is going through can provide relief. Regular physical activity, even light exercise like walking, can improve mood by releasing endorphins and improving blood sugar control.
You might also consider involving a mental health professional if she seems persistently down, as they can provide strategies to manage any depression or anxiety. Joining a support group, either for people with diabetes or general mental health, can also offer a sense of community and understanding, which can be highly comforting for someone newly diagnosed with a chronic illness.
Lastly, be patient and offer emotional support. Understanding that her behavior changes may stem from her condition can help you provide the right kind of care.
I hope this helps.
Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.
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Answered byDr. Raveendran S R
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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