Depression and Diabetes: How to Support Your Child

How Can I Support My Child?

There are many ways you can support your child:

• Learn the signs of depression and diabetes burnout. Contact your child’s care team if you notice any signs or if you have questions about what your child is experiencing.
• Do not let perfect be the enemy of good. Sometimes, people with diabetes feel like they need to manage their condition perfectly. This can lead to diabetes burnout. Ask the care team for ideas on ways to take healthy breaks from managing diabetes.
• Help your child set small, achievable goals to improve their mood. This can include things like going for a walk, spending time with loved ones or doing something they enjoy.
• Get moving. Physical activity can help improve your child’s physical and mental health. This include improving feelings of depression and keeping a healthy weight.
• Consider therapy or medication. If your child has depression, it is important to get help. Talk with your child’s pediatrician or diabetes care team about referrals and recommendations.
• Connect with people who understand. There are many resources at Mass General for Children and online. Some organizations that can help include:
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at MGfC
• The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds at MGfC
• Pediatric Endocrine and Diabetes Center at MGfC
• American Diabetes Association
• Joslin Diabetes Research Foundation
• College Diabetes Network
• National Alliance on Mental Illness
• Families for Depression Awareness

Learn More

• Depression and Diabetes: What You Need to Know
• Depression or Diabetes Burnout: What is the Difference?

Rev. 7/2018. Mass General for Children and Massachusetts General Hospital do not endorse any of the brands listed on this handout. This handout is intended to provide health information so that you can be better informed. It is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to treatment of any medical conditions.