Mechanisms and Pathways Linking Depression and Type 2 Diabetes Outcomes: A Scoping Review

People with diabetes experience a significantly higher prevalence of mental health issues, particularly depression. This adversely affects their diabetes management and overall health. This scoping review aims to develop a conceptual framework for understanding the connection between depression and diabetes outcomes globally, specifically focusing on intermediary factors that may influence this relationship.

PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Global Index Medicus were searched using relevant keywords on May 17, 2024. The inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed studies involving adults diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes that assessed depression and analysed its impact on diabetes outcomes through various pathways.

The review identified 30 studies examining the association between depression and diabetes outcomes. Results indicate that while depression is linked to poorer diabetes outcomes like glycaemic control and complications of diabetes, the mechanisms are complex and often mediated by factors such as self-efficacy, social support, and diabetes-related distress. Notably, self-efficacy emerged as a critical mediator in the relationship between depression and self-management behaviours, which are known to be associated with diabetes outcomes. Furthermore, social support was identified as a protective factor that can reduce the adverse effects of depression on glycaemic control.

Addressing mental health concerns in diabetes care is essential for improving patient outcomes. This review underscores the need for integrated interventions that consider psychosocial factors to enhance self-management and glycaemic control among individuals with Type 2 diabetes. Future research should focus on exploring these relationships in diverse populations to inform tailored strategies for effective diabetes management.