Growing concern for mental health of people living with diabetes

Managing diabetes can be very challenging, with many patients having to do finger prick tests to
check their blood glucose up to 10 times a day in a constant bid to balance their blood glucose
levels and stay healthy.

This can take a heavy toll, with up to half of people diagnosed with diabetes having experienced
depression.1

Diabetes Tasmania recognises the mental health of people living with diabetes is often not top of
mind because of the focus on the physical elements like monitoring glucose levels, and reducing the
associated risk of heart attack, stroke, blindness and amputation, and is keen to encourage the
inclusion of a mental health perspective when providing care.

“It is critical that health practitioners consider a holistic approach that addresses both physical and
mental wellbeing,” says Diabetes Tasmania CEO Caroline Wells.

To help promote this discussion amongst health practitioners, Diabetes Tasmania is partnering with
the Mental Health Professionals’ Network to convene a series of meetings where practitioners who
support people with diabetes can discuss ways they can address both sets of needs.

Renowned clinical psychologist Dr Christel Hendrieckx will present to the first meeting of the newly
formed group on Wednesday 10 September.

“We’ve been encouraged by the significant interest shown by local practitioners to engage in these
discussions. Any health professionals interested in getting involved are encouraged to contact
Diabetes Tasmania,” Ms Wells said.

About Diabetes Tasmania

Diabetes Tasmania is the peak body for people affected by all types of diabetes and those at risk, and is
committed to reducing the impact of diabetes working in partnership with consumers, health professionals and
researchers.

About the Mental Health Professionals’ Network

A not-for-profit organisation, MHPN is funded by the Commonwealth Government Department of Health. Its
purpose is to improved consumer outcomes by promoting and facilitating interdisciplinary practice and
collaborative care in primary mental health to enhance communities across Australia. The project currently
supports approximately 400 networks Australia wide, 44% of which are located in regional, rural and remote
areas. Learn more about MHPN at www.mhpn.org.au

References
1. Sane Australia. 2008. The SANE guide to good mental health for people with diabetes. http://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/PageFiles/1615/SANEdiabetes_Text.pdf
Diabetes Tasmania CEO Caroline Wells