Is the Cost of Diabetes Making You Depressed? Here's the Inside Story

A lot of real-life issues are addressed in the Diabetes Forum. Depression and diabetes often go hand in hand. It doesn't help matters if you can't afford your meds, equipment and supplies.

What happens if you lose your insurance and can't afford to pay for the things you need? Forum member Kristi posted a thread titled "Depression and Diabetes"...

"Can one affect the other? There are some major things in my life going on..one being that my husband was suspended from work 7-26-07 for two months and our insurance with it..I can't afford my Byetta shots now without it. Starting those shots was the best thing that has ever happened to me...read more"

Kristi wonders if the fact that she can't afford her Byetta is making her depressed as well. Several forum members answer her and address both their personal experiences with depression and give advice on patient assistance programs for helping her get the medications she needs.

Cruisergirl57 responds...

"Yes, depression is very common in diabetics. I too, suffer from both...Don't be afraid of the antidepressants. Just work with your doc. Also, if he can't give you samples, DO contact the company and tell them what's going on. Or go online and look for the PPA. Program for Patient Assistance. Also, Byetta is available from the drug company, I believe with their own assistance program. Just hang in there, and know we all support you...read more"

More from your Diabetes Guide...

• Diabetes and Depression
• Can I Deduct My Medical Expenses?

Photo courtesy of Somos/Veer/Getty Images