Fears, Depression, and Anxieties of Patients With Diabetic Retinopathy and Implications for Education and Treatment

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates undiagnosed depression and anxiety related to diabetes in patients with diabetic retinopathy and identifies commonly feared complications that these patients experience. Methods: The 74 consecutive individuals with diabetes were recruited for this investigation from the office of a retina specialist, and data were obtained from the participants through a self-report survey given to the patients before their appointment. Results: The most feared complication reported by patients surveyed was blindness (38.36%). When asked about depression and anxiety related to their diabetes, 20.27% of patients stated they have depression related to their diabetes, whereas 18.92% had anxiety related to their diabetes. Only 17.57% of the patients said they were being treated for their depression and/or anxiety at the time of the survey. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that many patients with diabetic retinopathy have coexisting fears and mental health concerns. Because most retina specialists treat a high number of patients with diabetes, it is crucial to understand the barriers and comorbidities related to this patient population. Retina specialists may play a role in identifying the hidden and underlying fears, depression, and anxieties in patients with diabetes so that these patients can get the necessary help and counseling they need.

Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Diabetic Retinopathy

“…The association between depression and DR in young people is stronger than in older people (48). Female patients with DR had higher levels of anxiety and sadness than men (49). However, controversially, there is inadequate research to determine if young female DR patients are more likely to be accompanied by negative feelings (50).…”