Diabetes is a condition that is estimated to affect more than 529 million people worldwide yet, surprisingly, many people don’t realise that the condition extends way beyond physical symptoms and can significantly impact mental health.
High blood sugar is the thing that comes to mind when most people consider diabetes. But were you aware that diabetes can cause nerve damage? In fact, studies reveal that diabetic neuropathies affect up to 50% of those living with diabetes. Imagine the sensation of tiny needles pricking your body—especially in your hands and feet—even though nothing is physically touching you. This is a common experience for people dealing with diabetic neuropathy (DN).
The condition stems from consistently high blood sugar levels that can damage the nerves in the body, leading to a variety of symptoms and chronic pain. For some people, this is just the beginning as these physical symptoms can escalate into feelings of anxiety, frustration and depression. According to the American Psychological Association, more than 50% of those with chronic pain develop depression at some point, underlining the direct link between physical discomfort and mental health struggles.
This complicated relationship is sometimes referred to as the ‘pain-depression cycle’. People in pain find it difficult to perform daily activities, enjoy hobbies and maintain social relationships which contribute to feelings of sadness and isolation. These feelings can, in turn, make their pain feel even more intense. But thankfully, while DN can be a life-long condition, there are mental health strategies and techniques which can make a huge difference.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based approach often recommended for chronic pain management. It helps individuals become their own therapists by identifying and changing negative pain-related thoughts and replacing them with more constructive perspectives. For example, rather than thinking ‘they will never feel comfortable again’, CBT can help patients change their mindset to one of ‘while I can’t control all aspects of DN, I can take steps to reduce its impact on my life.’
One particular study showed that 1 in 4 participants in a CBT program reported a reduction in pain of more than 30% and improved mental health outcomes compared to 1 in 6 who continued to receive care as usual. CBT is typically provided by licensed mental health professionals, but online resources and self-help books are also widely available for those unable to access therapy in person.
Mindfulness meditation is another technique often employed to help manage chronic pain. This practice encourages patients to focus on the present moment as opposed to fixating on pain, which according to research from the Harvard Medical School, can decrease the perception of pain by up to 57%.
Mediation apps like Guided Head Space and Insight Timer also offer free resources introducing mindfulness practices for pain management.
Isolation is common in people suffering from chronic pain but connecting with others who understand the daily challenges of living with DN, helps them gain new perspectives and coping strategies. Online support groups available on social media platforms and specialized websites offer a safe space to ask questions and share experiences learning how other people with similar conditions manage.
A recent study from the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that people who participated in chronic pain support groups reported a 25% increase in resilience and a 15% decrease in depressive symptoms. Knowing you’re not alone and hearing how others cope can be invaluable, especially on difficult days.
Diet and exercise while influencing physical health also help improve the mood. Diets rich in anti-inflammatory foods like berries, fish, and leafy greens and high in Omega 3s help reduce inflammation and potentially pain. You might also want to consider incorporating Vitamin B12 into your diet. Research suggests it can help with neuropathy. Regular exercise, even gentle walking or swimming, helps release endorphins which act as natural pain relievers. Small changes really can bring about meaningful improvements.
While it takes courage, seeking professional help is an important step toward taking control of your mental health. Psychologists, counselors, and even pain management specialists can provide support tailored to your specific needs. Through therapy, you can learn how to handle pain with greater ease, improve your mood, and set meaningful goals for the future.
If you’re worried about the cost, online therapy platforms such as BetterHelp and Talkspace offer flexible options. Many communities also provide affordable resources or sliding scale fees to help cover therapy costs.
If you suspect you may have diabetes or have been diagnosed with the condition, we understand the potentially debilitating effects of diabetic neuropathy and other nerve disorders. Our experienced team can provide a comprehensive evaluation to help determine the cause of your pain and tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs. We provide numerous non-invasive treatments that can help ease your symptoms. Why not schedule a consultation with our Board-certified Vascular and interventional Radiologists to see how we can help?
